Kericho Senator On Wednesday, July 31, Aaron Cheruiyot is scheduled to present several amendments to the Meteorological Bill, 2023 to the Senate.
Cheruiyot, who also serves as Senate Majority Leader, proposes a Ksh5 million fine for anyone who conducts meteorological observations, forecasting, or weather modification activities without authority.
“A person who engages in any meteorological observations, weather forecasting activities or weather modification activities without a permit commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding five million shillings or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years or both such fine and imprisonment,” read part of the amendments.
Furthermore, Cheruiyot proposed that anyone wishing to conduct meteorological observations, weather forecasting, or modification activities apply for a permit from the Kenya Meteorological Service Authority.
This fine is higher than what the bill previously proposed.
Prior to the amendments, Kenyans faced a Ksh1 million fine for publicly disseminating meteorological data collected from an unapproved weather station.
Cheruiyot’s amendments also proposed that the authority regulate meteorological services in Kenya.
The authority should ensure that meteorological services adhere to international standards and practices.
Furthermore, the authority should ensure that stations meet standards and that meteorological services are maintained.
“The authority shall set standards, develop curricula, provide training in meteorology, operational hydrology and related sciences, examine and award diploma and certification in line with the World Meteorological Organization and other standards,” Cheruiyot proposed.
Other responsibilities include approaching and registering meteorological stations, as well as monitoring and supervising meteorological operators’ activities.
The amendments require the authority to provide meteorological services and information to the public upon request.
“A person who obtains any meteorological data, information and other meteorological services from the Authority as a private good shall not, without the consent of the Authority, provide the same to a third party or cause it to be distributed,” read the recommendations in parts.
If passed, the bill will establish a legislative framework for the country’s meteorological services, allowing them to be coordinated and monitored.
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