Abstract:
This paper aims to explore the indigenous rainmaking practices in Western Kenya. The specific
objectives of the paper are to analyse the prevalence, evidence, seriousness, and effects of climate change
in Western Kenya; the local community’s response to the effects of climate change in Western Kenya;
how the indigenous rainmaking practices can be used to mitigate the consequences of climate change; and
strategies which can be used to mainstream indigenous rainmaking practices in building climate change
resilience in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Vision 2030 and the “Big 4”
Agenda in Kenya. The study used a qualitative research approach. Data was collected using interviews
with indigenous rainmakers and scientific weather experts in Western Kenya. Data was analysed
qualitatively using ATLAS.ti. The study revealed that the climate of Western Kenya has drastically
changed. This has affected the rainy seasons. The locals have responded by planting drought-resistant
crops that can withstand the changes and planting trees to boost rainfall. Indigenous rainmaking
practices such as making rain, preventing rain, and predicting rain are used by rainmakers to enhance
climate change adaptation and mitigation in the region. It is evident from the findings that traditional
rainmaking practices can contribute to food security, improved manufacturing by providing raw
materials, healthy livelihoods, social security, and increased employment through sustainable agriculture.
To maximise this potential, there is a need to mainstream traditional rainmaking practices in the
national response to climate change through documenting, popularising and validating the practice.
