The Standard Group Plc is a multi-media organization with investments in media
platforms spanning newspaper print operations, television, radio broadcasting,
digital and online services. The Standard Group is recognized as a leading
multi-media house in Kenya with a key influence in matters of national and
international interest.
"Many of us were expecting rains to boost tea production after a prolonged drought. We are forced now to hold for three weeks to get fresh leaves that meet the quality of tea demanded by the factories," he stated.
John Mengich is among over 100 small-scale tea farmers whose crops were extensively damaged in Tindiret.
"The storm spared crops on the hilly parts. But some of us living in the low lands woke up to the hailstones on Monday morning," he said.
The region experienced early rain last January and this year.
"We normally experience hailstones annually between June and August, but this indicates the change of climate we have observed for the last two years," said Mengich.
Erick Kosgei, a local tea and maize farmer, claimed climate change is affecting farming patterns.
In its January 18-24 forecast, the Kenya Meteorological Department circular noted rainfall is expected over several parts of the country.