US Government Donates Sh16 Billion Towards Kenya’s Drought Relief Efforts

Kenya has received a donation of Sh16 billion from the United States government in support of the ongoing drought relief efforts.

The US Agency for International Development (USAID) said the funds will help meet the urgent needs of approximately 1.3 million people across the country.

The agency will provide emergency food items such as sorghum, maize, yellow split peas, and vegetable oil for families living in areas where local markets are not functioning. In areas where markets are functioning, partners will provide cash-based assistance for families. 

USAID will also support programs to prevent and treat child malnutrition for more than 970,000 children aged below five years who are acutely malnourished across the country.

"Given the magnitude of the current crisis, however, more funding will be required to meet expected humanitarian needs through 2023," USAID added.

President Ruto welcomed the donation, which comes following a visit to the country by US First Lady Dr. Jill Biden. The president expressed his gratitude for the support as the country experiences the worst drought due to four 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 via Twitter.