Kenyans in 13 counties to suffer malnutrition due to starvation

An estimated 2.5 million Kenyans are facing starvation due to drought affecting harvests after poor rains.

People living in the 13 counties across the arid north, north-eastern and coastal parts of the country will be in “urgent need” of food aid after they received poor rainfall despite the fact that residents heavily rely on crops as a source of livelihoods

The counties are; Lamu, Turkana, Marsabit, Samburu, Isiolo, Wajir, Garissa, Tana River, Kilifi and Taita Taveta.

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Margaret Kobia yesterday said that the government has put in place measures to redress the issue.

“The government is doing a lot in terms of irrigation, infrastructure among other areas to eradicate poverty,” she said.

Kobia announced a plan by the government to buy from farmers 76,667 livestock that are considered weak and which will be slaughtered for distribution as relief food in a joint venture between the Ministry of Public Service, Ministry of Defence, Kenya Meat Commission and the Kenya Red Cross Society.

She additionally, singled out initiation of programmes such as irrigation projects through drilling of boreholes and a drought fund that allows the establishment of income generating community projects among others.

Cash transfers to stimulate the economy in the drought-affected counties, she further revealed that the State has shifted from food distribution to cash transfers to help curb pilferage and ensure decency.

Last year, Kobia announced a new policy shift of provide Sh3,000 monthly stipend to families in drought-stricken areas.

Kobia said the government resorted to the cash transfer programme due to similar initiatives which have proved successful.

“It has been decided government will use cash transfer instead of it buying food and distributing to the affected households,” she said.

“We have enough lessons including through the Inua Jamii program and the coronavirus pandemic for the informal sector. It will be a regular income during the drought situation. We believe that cash transfer will be a success.”

According to Kobia, the world over cash transfer has been found most suitable especially during drought situation.

“We will have concerted efforts since most humanitarian organizations have shifted to a cashless system. This will make sure that Kenyans will not lack food,” said Kobia.

The crisis continues to claim the lives of livestock besides leaving populations grappling with starvation.

The affected regions are usually the most food-insecure in the country due to high levels of poverty.