This archive report was first published on 19 May 2020.
Kenya is facing a severe locust invasion, with over 20 counties affected. The European Union has pledged to provide Sh2.4 billion to assist in the fight against locusts and support affected farmers.
On Tuesday, the EU announced a Sh16 billion package to bolster food security in Kenya and neighboring countries under the banner 'Team Europe'. The package includes financial and logistical support to farmers and small and medium enterprises.
The EU's support aims to strengthen value chains in the horticulture, dry land crops, and dairy sectors. The integration of food security and water programs is a crucial component of this effort, with the ultimate goal of building resilience and ensuring longer-term food security.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, new swarms expected to hatch this month will be up to 20 times larger than the previous ones, posing an unprecedented threat to food security in the region.
The coronavirus pandemic has exacerbated the food situation, with prevention and control measures creating additional challenges to the delivery of humanitarian aid to those in need.
As of last month, over 240,000 hectares had been treated with chemical pesticides and bio-pesticides across the region. However, movement restrictions due to the Covid-19 pandemic have hindered the supply of motorized sprayers and pesticides.
The EU's aid will also be used to support both refugees and their host communities, as well as for the treatment of acute malnutrition and boosting the overall health situation through the provision of basic services.
With some 25 million people already at risk of food shortages in the region, the desert locust upsurge is an additional threat to food security and livelihoods, especially for the most vulnerable communities.
Additionally, the EU is contributing Sh35 billion towards Kenya's response to the coronavirus, with other EU member states providing another Sh3.3 billion.
