Lake Victoria: Scorching heat raises concern across Nyanza as drought hits

Residents living along the shores of Lake Victoria in Nyanza are grappling with uncharacteristically high temperatures and punishing heat.

The high temperatures have led to drought which has left livestock with no pastures to graze.

The situation is becoming a growing concern for communities whose daily lives revolve around livestock keeping and small-scale farming.

Boda-boda riders, fishermen heading deep into the waters and traders selling in open markets have had to contend with high temperatures and intense heat. 

“The heat is making everyday activities increasingly difficult,” says John Otieno, a resident of Kadem in Nyatike Constituency.

According to residents, the high temperatures may have been as a result of long-term unhealthy environmental practices and climate change.

“Our people have cut down all the trees and cleared bushes leaving the land entire bare. I blame this on dwindling catch and overfishing. The fish and many people have resorted to charcoal burning which has affected the vegetation,” said Mr Salim Nyochol, Nyabomo Village in Nyatike.

“All the trees and vegetation cover are gone. What is left are stones and sand,” said Nyochol.

Residents say that the hot conditions are particularly challenging during the day, when temperatures rise sharply and beats down fishing beaches, homes and roads.

“Many of us who work as fishermen and do other outdoor works face the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion,” says Mike Oloo, a fisherman in Custom, Muhuru Bay.

Residents have been warned that prolonged exposure to high temperatures can affect children, older people and those working outdoors.

As the region continues to experience high temperatures, residents are being encouraged to stay hydrated, seek shade during the hottest hours and take precautions when working outdoors.

Residents are also trying to encourage communities to grow trees and ditch charcoal burning.