The interesting part about East Africa is the fact that though we are close to each other, our climates are quite diverse. As we continue to compare and contrast the different climate characteristics of all the East African countries, Kenya is the next one on the list.

Kenya has three types of climate zones all in one. The climate at the coast of the Kenyan border is tropical, characterised by high rainfall and temperatures throughout the year. They experience high humidity and hot temperatures throughout the year. The coastal region receives two rainy seasons: the long rains from April to June and the short rains from October to December.

The weather within the west and southwest is temperate as the Kenyan landscape is filled with mountains and plateaus. The altitude moderates temperatures, resulting in cooler weather compared to the coastal areas. Nairobi’s coolest months are July and August. The highlands experience two rainy seasons: the long rains from March to May and the short rains from October to November.

The northern part of Kenya has a hot and dry climate as they are arid and semi-arid land. These areas have a desert-like climate characterized by hot and dry conditions. Average annual rainfall is typically less than 500 millimetres, and it is highly variable. The rainy season is often short and unpredictable, with sporadic bursts of rainfall.

WHAT FACTOR AFFECTS KENYA’S CLIMATE?

The latitude and geography of the country play a great role in the climate. Kenya is located near the equator, which means it experiences relatively high solar radiation throughout the year, resulting in warm temperatures. Its diverse topography, which includes coastal areas, highlands, the Rift Valley, and arid regions, further influences local climate patterns. Variations in altitude, proximity to water bodies, and the presence of mountain ranges impact temperature, rainfall, and wind patterns.

Kenya is influenced by monsoonal winds, which are seasonal wind patterns that bring moisture and precipitation. The northeast monsoon, known as the “Kaskazi,” blows from December to March and brings short rains to the coastal areas. The southwest monsoon, called the “Kusi,” blows from April to October, bringing dry and cooler conditions to the coast.

The proximity of Kenya to the Indian Ocean affects its coastal climate. The ocean’s warm surface waters provide a source of moisture and contribute to the high humidity and elevated temperatures experienced along the coast. Sea breezes and ocean currents also influence local weather patterns.

Kenya’s highland regions, including Nairobi and other areas in the Rift Valley, experience milder temperatures due to their higher elevation. As altitude increases, the air temperature decreases. The highlands also receive more rainfall compared to the lowland areas.

Kenya is finalizing its long-term Greenhouse Gas Emission Strategy (2050), which will enhance the scope of circular economy interventions in all sectors and ensure principles that underpin the EU-Green Diplomacy are aligned with Kenya’s Green Growth Agenda.

“Most of the things that are happening in the world right now are because we have chosen to put profits above the people and our planet.”

– Elizabeth Wathuti