The government has now called for improved water trucking and repair of boreholes to help curb the drought problem in several parts of the country.
On Tuesday, January 10, the Ministry of EAC, Asals and regional development warned that families in the drought-stricken counties have continued to walk long distances in search of water for domestic use and livestock.
Moreover, the East Africa Community (EAC), Arid and Semi-Arid Lands Development Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano said the vegetation condition in some counties has continued to worsen.
She reported that the counties worst hit by drought are Marsabit, Wajir and Isiolo.
CS Miano further noted that although the pasture situation in some counties has slightly improved, the vegetation is not expected to last long due to migration and a high concentration of livestock in grazing areas.
Moreover, the three worst hit counties are currently facing an extreme vegetation deficit as well as Mandera, Samburu and Kwale.
“Pasture and livestock browsing conditions have deteriorated in Baringo, Garissa, Isiolo, Mandera, Marsabit, Narok, Turkana, Wajir, West Pokot, Kajiado and Kwale,” Miano said.
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“Consequently, the body condition of cattle and goats ranges from fair to poor as a result of long trekking distances in search of water and pasture.” She added.
The number of animals dying due to drought has continued to be witnessed in various counties including Marsabit, Isiolo, Turkana and Mandera due to the drought.
Furthermore, CS Miano reported that resource-based conflicts have been noted in parts of Burat and Kinna in Isiolo, Tiaty in Baringo and Laikipia North.
According to the CS, delayed, poor rainfall distribution and fall armyworm infestation have affected crop production in the food-producing areas. Hence worsening the already fragile food security situation in the country.
Statistics indicated that at least 4.35 million Kenyans are in dire need of relief food as the drought continues to bite while 960,000 children are severely malnourished.
