Kenya’s Drought Deepens: Millions Facing Starvation Risk
The drought situation in Kenya’s arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs) has worsened, leaving millions at risk of starvation, according to the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA). The NDMA reported that 20 out of 23 ASAL counties are experiencing deteriorating conditions due to the poor performance of the 2024 short rainy season.
“The 20 counties are classified in the ‘normal’ drought phase but are on a worsening trend,” the NDMA stated in its drought report for January 2025.
Children and Pregnant Women Among Most Affected
The NDMA noted a concerning decline in nutrition among children under five in the affected areas. Approximately 500,000 children under five and over 100,000 pregnant women are malnourished and in need of treatment.
Climate Change Exacerbating Food Insecurity
Up to 1.8 million people in Kenya’s ASAL regions were food insecure and required humanitarian assistance at the end of 2024, as the areas endured the severe effects of climate change. The Horn of Africa faces a broader crisis, with some 67.4 million people experiencing food insecurity, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development.
While many of those affected are in Sudan and other conflict-affected countries, Kenya contributes a significant number, as about half of its lands are semi-arid.
Urgent Need for Action
The worsening drought highlights the urgent need for interventions to address food insecurity and support vulnerable populations in Kenya and the wider Horn of Africa region.
