Meet Obedi Osore: Rainmaker

By observing variations in the air temperature, wind and behaviour of animals, Nganyi rain forecasters in Kenya are able to predict the onset of the next rainy season. “Rainmakers,” such as 74-year-old Obedi Osore Nganyi, observe subtle changes in nature that are unnoticed by most people. By studying air currents, the flowering and shedding of leaves of certain trees, the behaviour of ants, birds, even the croaking of frogs and toads, they interpret weather patterns and advise farmers about what to plant.
 “If river water is warm, then we know that rain is close and when it’s cold, we know that rain is not near,” explains Obedi Osore. “There are also feelings in the body, ...