Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot, who also serves as the Senate Majority Leader, is set to introduce significant amendments to the Meteorological Bill 2023 during a Senate session on July 31.  

The proposed amendments aim to tighten regulations surrounding meteorological activities in Kenya and increase penalties for non-compliance.  

Cheruiyot’s amendments include a substantial rise in fines for individuals engaging in unauthorized meteorological observations, weather forecasting, or weather modification. Under the new proposal, those found conducting these activities without proper authorization could face fines of up to Ksh5 million or imprisonment for up to five years, or both. This represents a significant increase from the previous fine of Ksh1 million for similar offences.  

In addition to the enhanced penalties, the amendments stipulate that anyone wishing to perform meteorological observations or forecasting must first secure a permit from the Kenya Meteorological Service Authority. This move is designed to streamline the regulatory framework governing meteorological services in the country.  

The proposed amendments also empower the Kenya Meteorological Service Authority with several new responsibilities, like:  

• Setting and maintaining international standards for meteorological services.  

• Developing training programmes.  

• Overseeing the operation of meteorological stations.  

• Ensuring that meteorological services are provided to the public upon request, though data obtained from the authority cannot be distributed without consent.  

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The overarching goal of these changes is to establish a robust legislative framework for regulating meteorological services, ensuring compliance with global standards, and improving the coordination and monitoring of meteorological activities in Kenya. If enacted, these amendments will significantly alter how meteorological services are managed and monitored in the country.