The Kenyan government has received a helping hand from the United States of America (USA) to fight the current hunger and drought that is plaguing the nation.
Through the U.S Agency for international Development (USAID), Kenya received Khs. 16 billion shillings which is set to at least support 1.3 million people in the country.
The Kenya Kwanza government says the existing drought has left more than four million people in dire need of food, adding that the number is expected to rise by mid-year.
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USAID will provide food such as sorghum, maize, yellow split peas, and vegetable oil for families living in areas where local markets are not functioning.
The US government further said it will also aid in terms of cash in areas where markets are functioning.
“Given the magnitude of the current crisis, however, more funding will be required to meet expected humanitarian needs through 2023,” USAID added.
On Tuesday, February 8, President William Ruto welcomed the announcement which comes following a visit to the country by US First Lady Jill Biden.
Ruto took to Twitter where he expressed his gratitude for the support as the country experiences the worst drought due to 4 years of failed rains.
“On behalf of the people of Kenya, my profound gratitude to the US government for this generous support to very deserving people suffering the worst drought due to 4 years consecutive failed rains. Water harvesting to enhance food/livestock production & manage climate change effects,” Ruto said.