Kitui County Director of Meteorological Services Dr Daniel Mbithi addressing the media during a past interview. |MWINGI TIMES

However, mornings are likely to be cloudy. There will be sunny intervals later in the day, according to the Weekly forecast for Kitui County obtained by MWINGI TIMES.

"Afternoon showers and thunderstorms are expected over a few places, occassionally spreading to several places. Night showers are likely to occur over a few places", said Dr Daniel Mbithi, the County Director of Meteorological Services.

Additionally, most parts of Kitui County will experience strong south to south easterly winds. The weatherman said the winds will blow at a speed not exceeding 25 knots or 12.86 m/s.

The maximum temperature for this week will oscillate between 24°C and 35°C while the minimum temperature range will be felt anywhere between 16°C and 23°C.

Kitui County Deputy Governor Augustine Kanani (left) and Speaker Kevin Kinengo Katisya during the Jamhuri Day celebrations at Kwa Kilui  Primary School in Kitui Rural on Friday.|MWINGI TIMES

Kitui County Commissioner Erastus Mbui presided over the celebrations which were also graced by deputy governor Augustine Kanani.

Speaker Katisya appealed to County Commissioner Mbui to brief the Head of State of the urgent situation given little or no harvest is expected.

"The rains have performed poorly. We are on the brink of a serious famine. The national government needs to put in place contigency measures", said the youthful Speaker.

A weeded farm in Kalimbui sub location, Tseikuru district, Kitui county on November 24, 2025. Widespread failure of October-November-December rains is leading to poor harvest since crops never reached maturity.|MWINGI TIMES

Kitui county has faced several droughts since independence  and food security is a distant dream. With climate change exarcabating the situation, stakeholders have to act to minimise adverse effects of low harvests.

The Kenya Meteorological Department reiterates that the cessation of short rains in the county remains either the third or fourth week of December. This has been further corroborated by the weekly weather forecast where Daniel Mbithi, the County Director of Meteorological Services said, "most parts of the county will be sunny and dry with a possibility of morning rains as well as afternoon and night showers over a few places".

As for the month of December, the Met Department says that most parts of the county are likely to experience near average  to below average (generally depressed) rainfall.

Further,  the weatherman said that the season has been harsh for our farmers who depend on it for increased food security.  This is because most parts of the county did not receive sufficient rains to guarantee adequate harvests. 

"Most parts of the county are likely to experience near average to below average (generally depressed) rainfall", the Kitui met boss said.

The December dry spell will be exacerbated by continued dry conditions that came to define November. Generally, most parts of Kitui county experienced moderate to extremely dry conditions throughout the month", said Dr Daniel Mbithi.  This, was not enough to make farmers reap anything meaningful as the season comes to an end.

Temperature conditions will remain warmer than average for the rest of this week,  the Kenya Meteorological Department notes.  The maximum temperature range will oscillate between 25°C to 34°C while the minimum temperature range is expected to be from 15°C to 22°C.

This is an extraordinary leap given Kitui county was position 30 nationally the previous year.

Among the aspects examined during the ranking are TB surveillance,  data accuracy and overall quality of care.

Recently,  the Kitui county government carried out a comprehensive digitisation training on TB reporting in order to improve accuracy and enhance timeliness in TB surveillance across all hospitals. This includes strengthening real-time data entry. 

The county suffered negative publicity when misleading reports emerged in October this year claiming that TB patients were being placed in the same wards as non-TB patients at the Kitui County Referral Hospital.  Chief Officer for Public Health and Sanitation Lynn Kitwan strongly refuted the September allegations. 

"The claim that TB patients were being placed in the same wards with non-TB patients at KCRH in October is completely false.  The hospital observes strict infection prevention and control protocols,  ensuring the infectious TB cases are isolated appropriately and never mixed with general ward patients".

To improve TB detection efforts at the local levels,  the county installed an X-ray machine at Kanyangi Sub County Hospital and digital TB X-ray machines in Zombe and Kyuso hospitals to significantly enhance TB screening, diagnosis and treatment.

 The Kenya Meteorological Department notes that as such, most parts of Kitui county have remained sunny and dry since October.  However, significant rainfall was received towards the end of  October. 

But for the week leading up to December 1st, the weatherman says, "There is a possibility of morning rains as well as afternoon and night showers over a few places during the forecast period."

The week is expected to be relatively warm given the maximum temperature range of 24°C to 33°C has been forecasted by  the KMD.  There are also likely to be strong winds blowing from the south to south eastern side of the county.

The month of November November is expected to be marked by near to below average rainfall in Kitui County.  "Some few parts of  the county are likely to experience below average rainfall," said Dr Daniel Mbithi,  County Director of Meteorological Services.

Still, the weatherman acknowledged that climate change continues to affect weather forecasts and, as such, has urged members of the public to consult their respective local extension officers for more advice on best farm practices.

In order to overcome challenges of climate change, Kenyans should adapt to the phenomenon in order to leverage on the short rain season, hence better farm harvests.

One way of adapting to climate change is by planting drought tolerant crops like millet, sorghum, and cowpeas, among other indigenous plants able to survive erratic weather patterns in Kitui County.

Kitui County Director of Meteorological Services Daniel Mbithi said that the distribution of rainfall is expected to be poor, with prolonged dry spells and isolated storms in some areas. 

"Temperatures are expected to be warmer than average over most parts of the county," said Dr Mbithi. 

In general,  the entire Kitui county will experience intermittent rainfall throughout the season. Rainfall amounts are likely to be below the long-term average for the season. Still, rainfall is expected to be poorly distributed in both space and time.

Kenya Meteorological Department reiterates that this is not the onset of October-November- December rains. 

Further, the weatherman forecast shows that there will be a long dry spell after cessation of rains awaiting the forecast onset.

Earlier, the Met department had predicated that the OND seasons will start from third to fourth week of November 2025.

Trees exhale for us so that we can inhale to stay alive. Can we ever forget that? Let us love trees with every breath we take until we perish. "Until you dig a hole, you plant a tree, you water it and make it survive, you haven't done a thing. You are just talking." Wangari Maathai. 

There are more life forms in a handful of forest soil than there are people on the planet. Time spent amongst trees is never wasted time. “Trees are poems that the earth writes upon the sky.” Kahlil Gabran. 

Learn character from trees, values from roots and change from leaves. Go forth under the open sky and listen to nature’s teachings. “Change is never easy and it often creates discord but when people come together for the good of humanity and the earth, we can accomplish great things.” David Suzuki. 

When one plants a tree they plant themselves. Every root is an anchor, over which one rests with grateful interests, and becomes sufficiently calm to feel the joy of living. The one who plants trees knowing that he or she will never sit in their shade, has at least started to understand the meaning of life. There is no Wi-Fi in the forest but I promise you will find a better connection. 

Together we can preserve the forest, securing this immense treasure for the future of generations to come after us. Nature is not a place to visit, it is home.

Trees are like the veins of our planet, carrying the life blood of the air, water and wildlife around it. Trees are the best monuments that a man can erect to his own memory. They speak his praises without flattery and they are blessings to children yet unborn. “The trees are God’s great alphabet: With them He writes in shining green across the world His thoughts are serene.” Leonora Speyer.

Love is like a tree, it grows of its own accord, it puts down deep roots into our whole being. “A nation that destroys its soils destroys itself. Forests are the lungs of our land, purifying the air and giving fresh strength to our people.” Franklin D. Roosevelt. When trees burn, they leave the smell of heartbreak in the air.

A general outlook of below normal rainfall is expected. It will be poorly distributed both in time and space. "However, a few areas may experience occasional rainfall at the beginning of the month which will be followed by a dry spell", said KMD Director for Kitui County Dr Daniel Mbithi.

Consequently, since the weather forecast is predicted to be below normal, farmers should grow drought tolerant crops such as sorghum, millet, cowpeas and green grams.

Due to the challenges of climate change, residents were advised to harvest water during the upcoming wet period. 

Throughout this season, locals and visitors are cautioned about prevalence of strong winds blowing in the southern and south easterly direction at a speed of over 25 knots or 12.86m/s.

‎"This a compelling reminder that pharmacists are not only custodians of medicines but also central architects of stronger health systems and better health outcomes," said Dr. Muthini.

‎In a statement he issued  on Thursday during the celebration of the World Pharmacist Day, he said the day's mantra;  Think Health, Think Pharmacists, goes beyond just a mere slogan.

‎"The role of pharmacists has evolved far beyond the traditional image of just dispensing medicines. Today, pharmacists are at the frontline in healthcare delivery," he said.

‎He noted that despite a myriad of hiccups facing the health system, pharmacists remain a largely untapped health care workforce.

‎He added that the workforce had the potential to address some of the most pressing health care challenges.

‎"This entails ensuring equitable access to quality medicines and supplies, promoting safe and rational drug use, geared towards fight against antimicrobial resistance," he pointed.

‎Dr. Muthini lamented that despite the huge potential, financial constraints have forced the government to deploy non-professionals to perform the roles and responsibilities that require the expertise of trained pharmacists.

‎"While such measures may save costs in the short term, this exposes patients to avoidable risks, compromise medicine optimization, and erode public trust in healthcare systems," he observed.

‎The pharmacist  at the Kitui County Referral Hospital Cancer Centre further rued that the long-term social and economic costs of such shortcuts far outweighed any perceived savings.

‎He said pharmacists ensure functionality of supply chain and use of medicines and health technologies, administer vaccinations and offer preventive and promotive health services.

‎Further, he added, they play a pivotal role in combating antimicrobial resistance through stewardship programs and rational antibiotic use.

‎They are also instrumental in raising health literacy across communities, leading public health campaigns, and being key players in patient care.

‎The areas, he added , include hospital wards to the specialized clinics in oncology, HIV, tuberculosis, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and other non-communicable conditions.

‎"Through these wide range of contributions in the health care system, pharmacists provide safe, effective, and cost-efficient care that not only improves individual patient outcomes but also strengthens the entire health systems," he said.

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The rain whose onset is expected to be from the third to forth week of November is expected to be below average.

"Most parts of the northeast and southeastern lowlands and coastal region are expected to receive below average rainfall", wrote Charles Mugah, for the Acting Director of Meteorological Services.

He goes on to say, "Southeastern lowland counties-Kitui, Makueni, Taita Taveta, Machakos- expected to receive intermittent rainfall throughout the season. Total rainfall amounts are likely to be below the long term average for the season. Rainfall expected to be poorly distributed both in space and time".

The government further advises Kenyans to brace for prolonged dry spells and isolated storms during the short rains which have delayed onset and early cessation tentatively set for the third or fourth week of December 2025.

During the forecast period, the weatherman further expects that temperature will be warmer than average over most parts of the country.

From stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori infection and excessive use of painkillers, to diabetic foot ulcers resulting from uncontrolled diabetes, these conditions often go unnoticed until they become severe. Recent reports from Kenyan hospitals highlight a worrying increase in ulcer-related cases, with many patients unaware of the risks and warning signs. 

According to statistics, peptic or gastric ulcers, accounted for around 1,089 deaths  which is 0.41% of all deaths in 2020.A meta-analysis revealed a peptic ulcer disease prevalence of 12% in Kenya, especially in Nairobi and Nakuru counties from 2011–2013. 

For instance at Nairobi's Mbagathi Hospital, 46.2% of peptic ulcer patients tested positive for H. pylori. For diabetic foot ulcers, 4.6% of diabetic patients at Kenyatta National Hospital were affected.

Risk factors in Kenya include contaminated water, smoking, stress, alcohol, family history, and long fasting. H. pylori infects 50% of people globally, with 10–20% of carriers developing ulcers. Infection often occurs in childhood due to poor sanitation.

Diabetic foot ulcers is caused by nerve damage, poor blood circulation, high blood sugar, hypertension, and infections. 

It can be managed though stabilizing blood sugar, treating infection, debriding necrotic tissue, and use protective footwear. 

The Prevention of this ulcer focuses on early screening, hygiene, and regular podiatry visits.

Venous ulcers is develop from chronic venous insufficiency leg veins that fail to return blood effectively. It can be treated through compression therapy, leg elevation, exercise, and vascular evaluation.

Peptic Ulcers is diagnostic to antibody tests and endoscopy. Peptic ulcers can be treated through triple therapy and adjust for antibiotic resistance.

H. pylori can be reduced through water quality improvement, sanitation, and hygiene, avoid unnecessary non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and use alternatives like paracetamol. 

You need to stop smoking, reduce alcohol, eat regularly and manage stress. Also, ensure you go for medical check-ups  early   for H. pylori and diabetic foot issue as mentioned by Kingsley, one of the victims ,“The Doctor even told me most people have Pylori and they don’t know … Always do occasional tests in the hospital.”  

The government should boost public health education about ulcers, symptoms, and complications to ensure access to diagnostics, subsidize H. pylori testing and endoscopy in both urban and rural areas as well as regulating medications to prevent overuse of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotic misuse. It should also invest in sanitation infrastructure to provide clean water and integrate ulcer checks into existing health programs like diabetes clinics and support research on regional antibiotic resistance and disease trends.

Ulcers may seem minor at first, but they can escalate into life-threatening issues like bleeding, perforation, or limb amputation. Therefore, Individuals should schedule regular check-ups, especially if they have risk factors. Health providers must advocate early testing and sound treatment protocols and the government leadership can drive systemic improvements that save lives.

Stay informed, stay proactive, and treat ulcer concerns with the seriousness they deserve. It may be the difference between recovery and serious complications. Hence a healthy outside starts from inside.

The region has been facing drought and access to water and pasture are limited. 

"Although we have not carried out the official food security situation assessment for Kitui, it is overt that our county is staring at up to 50 percent crop failure," said Koma on Thursday.

He said the food security would be conducted in early July in order to paint a more concrete picture of the situation. He said food aid support may be required in some cases.

On his part, Governor Dr Julius Malombe blamed the acute drop in crop yields following the last MAM rainfall on the failure by farmers to adhere to meteorological advisory.

The governor said that the situation would have been better had the residents observed the rainfall advisory given by the meteorological department that the MAM rain would not be sufficient for water thirsty crops like Maize.

Dr Malombe observed that had residents planted drought tolerant crops like millet and sorghum, they could have been more food secure as the crops would have performed well even with the poor MAM rainfall.

He pointed out that residents who listened to the weatherman's advisory and planted the drought-escaping crops had realised good yields from the MAM rain.

The Kitui county boss said on the contrary, those who planted maize watched helplessly as their crop failed.He advised  that going forward residents should take the rainfall advisory from the meteorological department seriously as it was accurate.

“We were given advice that the rains will be inadequate but ignored and plant maize only for the crop to wither before maturity leaving behind drying stocks beating the reason why farmers planted the crop,” said Governor Malombe.

He added that it was prudent for the residents to listen to agricultural extension officers who deliver timely weather advisory.

“If they say the rainfall will not be good  you  should plant drought tolerant crops like millet and sorghum and you will be assured of harvest,” said Malombe on Thursday.

The governor spoke as he issued 21 agricultural extension officers with motorbikes to boost their work.He said  the initiative was an important milestone in the advancement of agricultural extension and advisory services in Kitui.

Malombe said the object of the mobility empowerment was to reach up to  229,363 smallholder farmers in Kitui County with agricultural technologies to help them end over dependence on rain-fed agriculture to more reliable irrigated farming.

Speaking  to newsmen earlier on Thursday, Kitui CEC  for Agriculture Stephen Kimwele  confirmed that a large percentage of the MAM season crop  had failed  as the rains performed poorly.

He at the same time cautioned  farmers who planted drought tolerant crops and realised substantial yield  not to sell the surplus at throw away price to profiteering brokers and middlemen.

“Those who have surplus yield from crops like green grams should not rush to sell at throw away prices. Let them wait until the price is good so that they can get good returns,” said Kimwele.

Sickle cell anaemia is a genetic blood disorder that affects how red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body. Instead of round, flexible cells, those with the condition have cells shaped like a sickle – or a curved farming tool. These sickle-shaped cells get stuck in blood vessels, causing pain, fatigue, organ damage, and sometimes, early death.

This disease is inherited, meaning a child gets it when both parents carry the sickle cell trait. If just one parent has the trait, the child may not be sick, but can still pass it on. That’s why knowing your sickle cell status is so important, especially before marriage or having children. Many of our people suffer in silence. Instead of seeking medical help, some turn to myths, stigma, or self-blame. Others fear judgment, and hide their condition. Yet, behind closed doors, they suffer frequent pain crises, miss school and feel isolated.

It’s time to say enough is enough!. Sickle cell anaemia is not a curse, not witchcraft, and definitely not a punishment. It is a medical condition – and it can be managed. I am urging everyone in our community: "do not be ashamed of sickle cell anaemia. Talk about it openly. Support those living with it. Go to the hospital. Get tested”.

Modern medicine has come a long way. With proper treatment, people living with sickle cell anaemia can lead long, productive lives. Medication, regular checkups, pain management, and even blood transfusions are available at most local health facilities. 

Parents, if your child is always sick, weak, or complains of joint pain, take them for screening. Young people, before getting married or starting a family, know your sickle cell status. Prevention starts with knowledge.

Let us break the culture of silence. Let us replace fear with facts, judgment with love, and silence with support. Through encouraging one another to speak out, forming support groups, visiting health centres for advice and treatment. It is our responsibility to stand with those affected, not isolate them. 

Churches, schools, chiefs, and community leaders must be part of this movement. Let’s talk about sickle cell anaemia the same way we talk about malaria or HIV – with honesty, empathy, and determination.

Let us not wait until we lose another life. Let us act now. Get tested! Get treated! Get informed. Because sickle cell anaemia is real – and so is the hope of living well.

Visit your nearest hospital for screening and support. Your life or your child’s could depend on it.

He spoke during a two day public sensitisation forum on mitigation of AIDS pandemic and other syndemic diseases in Makueni, Wote on Tuesday.

The NSDCC collaborated with the Federation of Kenya Employers, Central Organisation of Trade Unions, HIV and  Aids Tribunal and the State Department of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises to host  the event.

Ndolo said the campaign would also focus on work places to ensure that work mates do not pass the HIV/AIDS malady to  one another. "Employers and employees need access information on policies that prevent the spread of HIV and other syndemic diseases at the work place for the  zero spread to be achieved," pointed Ndolo.

He emphasized on the provision of and unrestricted  access to condoms that help prevent infection at all public facilities for a healthy nation.

The representatives of civil  society groups present were urged to sensitize members of grassroot community based organisations on sexual transmitted diseases,Tuberculosis, mental health as well as reproductive health.

Ndolo further lamented that the triple threat facing school girls  in the country should not occur in the present day Kenya. The director noted that girls  at the  productive age of between 21 years to 29 years are at the highest risk of contracting HIV/AIDS, premature pregnancy and sexual and gender based violence.

Members  of the informal sectors included bodaboda  operators, hawkers, jua kali traders who participated  in the sensitisation forum promised to spread the anti -HIV/AIDS message to the people they interact with.

Makueni county multi-sectorial coordinator, Joseph Kavoi, disclosed that in the year 2023, new recorded HIV cases stood at 179. He further said the disease prevelance for Makueni county stands at 2 percent while that of the country stands at 3.3 percent.

On January 20, US President Donald Trump sanctioned a three month stoppage of foreign aid that affected all United States Agency for International Development support. USAID funding support affected Africa the most. Among projects it funded were those fighting HIV spread, delivering food assistance and promoting security.

However, added that  morning light rains  as well as afternoon and night showers and thunderstorms were  expected over a few places during the early days of the week long weather forecast ending May 19th.

The maximum temperature forecast for Kitui County is expected to range from 23°C to 33°C while the minimum temperature will oscillate between 15°C and 22°C.