On May 7, 2022, the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) launched a relief effort in Mandera County, distributing 5600 bags of livestock feed pellets to help alleviate the devastating effects of the drought.
The feed, rich in vital mineral additives, is expected to last approximately two weeks, supporting over 300,000 animals, including cattle, sheep, donkeys, goats, and camels.
NDMA Mandera County Director Hussein Alio emphasized that the feed distribution aims to reach every pastoralist in the county, providing essential nutrition to their livestock.
However, the drought has taken a toll on the livestock, leaving them weak due to inadequate pasture. As a result, the communities have suffered a loss of income, as the livestock is now cheaper and unable to produce adequate milk.
The drought has also led to severe malnutrition and poverty in the county, with the government's cash transfer programs providing some assistance to affected households.
Mandera County Commissioner Onesmus Kytha oversaw the relief effort, assuring pastoralists that the distribution would be fair and prioritizing the most affected areas.
He urged locals not to sell the feeds but to give them to their emaciated livestock, as the nutritious feeds would boost their body mass and income.
According to reports, over 1200 livestock have been lost to the drought in the county, with minimal rainfall recorded in most areas.
