Location: Makueni County, Kenya
Crops: Maize, beans, black beans (njahe)
Program: TomorrowNow Climate SMS Advisory in partnership with KALRO
For many farmers in Makueni County, the rains have become increasingly unreliable — and for one local farmer, Christine Mutana, the difference is striking.
“These days, the rain arrives early and when it does, it rains a lot,” she says. “However, it can rain for two weeks and then completely stop. We can go a month without rainfall which causes our crop to dry out. The rain can be a lot, but short-lived — it starts early, then ends suddenly. We are left looking at the clouds, waiting. It then gets very dry.”
To cope with these changing conditions, Christine now relies on TomorrowNow’s weather forecast messages, which provide local, actionable insights to help farmers plan. “The messages are very helpful. A little while ago, I received the message and it said that the rain would be minimal, the time hasn’t arrived yet, and that I should wait. That is why I am currently waiting,” she explains. “As you can see, I haven’t finished preparing my farm because I wasn’t in a hurry. The message was helpful.”
She adds that without these updates, her efforts could have been wasted.
“If I hadn’t received the message, I would’ve finished preparing my farm and I would’ve started planting. The messages came beforehand and they said I should delay planting because the rains would be a little late.”
Christine’s story captures the power of data-driven weather intelligence — helping farmers adapt to climate uncertainty, conserve resources, and protect their livelihoods. By following TomorrowNow’s tailored guidance, she has been able to make informed, climate-resilient decisions that safeguard both her crops and her future.