Former Chief Justice David Maraga has raised alarm over the anticipated "Godzilla" El Niño weather event forecasted to impact Kenya and the wider region from October 2026 through early 2027.
In a statement issued by the United Green Movement (UGM), which Maraga co-leads and under whose banner he plans to run for president in 2027, the party highlighted projections from the Kenya Meteorological Department, World Meteorological Organisation, and ICPAC indicating the likelihood of intense rainfall during this period.
Risks and Affected Areas
The UGM cautioned that the heavy rains could lead to widespread flooding, landslides, and significant disruptions to agriculture. Vulnerable zones include communities around the Tana, Athi, and Ewaso Nyiro river basins, as well as parts of the Rift Valley and the Lake Victoria basin.
Particular concern was expressed for the North Rift and Western regions, where prolonged rainfall may cause post-harvest losses and damage to crops.
Calls for Action
- Immediate development and implementation of a national emergency plan focused on protecting smallholder farmers and securing food reserves.
- Release of county funds to clear drainage systems and reinforce riverbanks.
- Deployment of government-supported mobile drying units and mechanical harvesters to vulnerable farming areas by August 10, 2026.
- Establishment of local emergency response mechanisms in flood-prone communities.
- Enhanced water harvesting initiatives to capture excess rainfall for use beyond the rainy season.
Maraga and UGM emphasize the importance of early preparations to mitigate the potential adverse impacts of the forecasted El Niño rains.
