Institute for Development Studies, University of Nairobi

Rainfall series in various parts of Kenya is subjected to spectral analysis. Contrary to past investigations, it is found that no rainfall behaviour at any rainfall station possesses a ten-year cycle neither is there any important five-year cycle. Most rainfall series in central Kenya possess an average cycle of between 2 and 1/2 to 3 and 1/2 years while those on the Coast and Lake Victoria area have a 2.2-year cycle. There are secondary cycles of various lengths for most stations.