By Obiabin Onukwugha
Kenyan government has emphasised its commitment to implementing th Early Warnings for All initiative, with a target of ensuring that every Kenyan receives timely and life-saving weather alerts by 2027.
The government also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening weather and climate services as a critical pillar for safeguarding livelihoods, enhancing food security, and improving disaster preparedness.
Environment, Climate Change and Forestry Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Deborah Barasa, made the commitment while speaking during the joint commemoration of World Meteorological Day 2026 and the Farmers Open Day at KALRO Grounds in Njoro on Monday,
She emphasized the central role of meteorological science in national development. Barasa described meteorological data as “the first line of defense for our economy,” noting that accurate forecasts are essential for protecting lives, property, and the environment amid increasing climate variability.
She pointed to recent extreme weather events, including heavy rainfall and rising lake levels in the Rift Valley as clear indicators of the growing impacts of climate change.
The Cabinet Secretary also highlighted a major milestone in the sector, which is the transition of the Kenya Meteorological Department into the Kenya Meteorological Service Authority (KMSA). She noted that the new status will enable modernization of observation systems, strengthen global partnerships, and enhance the delivery of actionable weather and climate information to Kenyans.
Principal Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Engr Festus Ng’eno, underscored the importance of reliable weather and climate observations in supporting economic planning, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable development across sectors.
He noted that Kenya continues to face increasing climate variability, including erratic rainfall, rising temperatures, and flooding, which have impacted communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems. He also highlighted the need for continued investment in observation systems, early warning mechanisms, and climate-smart solutions to build national resilience.
Acting Director at Kenya Meteorological Service, Mr. Edward Muriuki, noted that the growing accuracy of weather forecasting is being driven by significant technological advancements. He highlighted the use of more sophisticated computer models, enhanced technical expertise, and the ability to generate highly localized forecasts tailored to specific areas developments that are steadily pushing forecasting accuracy closer to near-perfect levels.
Kenya Department for Environment and Climate Change reported that the event, held under the theme “Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow,” also featured the launch of the State of the Climate in Kenya 2025 Report, which highlights a warming trend and increasing climate risks, reinforcing the urgency of strengthening adaptive measures.
