This archive report was first published on 9 November 2019.
On November 9, 2019, the government of Kenya, in collaboration with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), began distributing food supplies to families affected by floods in Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Tana River counties.
Following a formal request from the government, WFP deployed a Mi-8 helicopter to deliver life-saving assistance to affected families.
According to Eugene Wamalwa, Cabinet Secretary in the Ministry of Devolution and Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs), the government faces a significant challenge in delivering relief supplies due to access constraints.
Wamalwa stated, "We have therefore requested WFP to mobilize a high-capacity helicopter to enable us to continue with relief activities."
The floods, which began in early October, have destroyed bridges and cut off major roads, particularly in the Northeast, paralyzing transport.
The Kenya Meteorological Department forecasts that the rains in arid and semi-arid regions will peak in mid-November, with the current levels being two to three times above normal.
Annalisa Conte, WFP Country Director and Representative, emphasized the government's commitment to reaching people affected by the floods, stating, "The Government of Kenya is taking a strong lead in reaching people whose lives have been affected by the floods."
WFP has a long history of working with the Ministry of Devolution and ASALs to monitor the impact of disasters and alleviate suffering caused by them.
