This archive report was first published on 28 July 2019.
Published on July 28, 2019, a report by the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) warned that the number of people facing food shortages in North Eastern Kenya was likely to hit 2 million by the end of the month.
According to the report, the figure was an increase from 1.6 million people in May, with some of the most affected areas being Turkana, Marsabit, Isiolo, Samburu, Wajir, Garissa, Tana River, and Tigania West.
North Eastern MPs, led by National Assembly Majority Leader Aden Duale, have appealed for urgent food and water supplies to assist the affected communities. Duale stated that the region was facing a severe shortage of food, water, and pastures due to the failure of the April-May long rains.
“We ask the national and county governments, and international donors to come to the aid of the people affected by the drought,” said Duale.
The MPs also expressed concerns that the ongoing drought may force locals to skip the forthcoming population census, scheduled for August 24 and 25, as they migrate to neighboring counties in search of water and pastures.
Isiolo Senator Fatuma Dulo suggested that the government should declare the drought a national disaster, while Isiolo County Woman Rep Jaldesa requested that the census be conducted in consultation with all stakeholders, taking into account the unique situation in northern Kenya.
