1) The velds of Africa have a moderate climate even though it is situated near the equator because of the influence of the Indian Ocean.
2) The velds receive rainfall mainly in the summer months from November to February. This is mainly because of the warm ocean currents that wash the shores of the velds.
3) Altitude affects climate even the places near the equator. E.g. Mt.Kilimanjaro receives snowfall even though it is very near to the equator and it should be very hot.