Gov't Differs with Media, Says No Kenyan Has Died of Starvation
The government has dismissed reports that more than 10 Kenyans have lost their lives as a result of starvation caused by the current drought situation in several counties.
Speaking on Monday, the National Disaster Management Authority CEO James Oduor has accused the media of spreading false information regarding the drought situation in the country.
Although he admits deaths have been reported in some parts of Baringo and Turkana Counties, Oduor says the deaths are not entirely linked to hunger.
“Yes, deaths were there but they cannot be linked directly to drought. This can be as a result of sickness and other issues,” he says.
His sentiments have been echoed by Devolution Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa who spoke separately to NTV.
"There are no confirmed deaths yet. What we have are just unverified reports,” Wamalwa says.
CS Wamalwa has acknowledged that the hunger situation in some areas is dire but maintains there is enough food in the country’s grain reserve to feed the starving population.
“For now we have enough food in the country, in our national silos we have about four million bags, all we have to do now is supply it to the drought-hit counties.”
Reports on a section of local press indicate that close to 20 people have so far lost their lives due to starvation.
Deputy President William Ruto has assured Kenyans that the government is dealing with the situation.
“I want to categorically state that the situation is better than last year and year before. We are in a better place in terms of vegetation, livestock and food prices."
"We are working on logistics to ensure food reaches those affected to avoid causalities. We can confidently say as a country we have sufficient food stocks and supply," says Ruto.
More than one million Kenyans in 12 counties are facing acute food shortage owing to the drought.
The drought-stricken counties include Baringo, Turkana, Isiolo, Garissa, Wajir, Kilifi, Marsabit, Tana River Samburu, Mandera, Kitui and, Makueni.