NAIROBI, Kenya-Jan 14, 2026 –The government has set aside Sh.6 billion to mitigate the effects of the ongoing drought affecting over 20 counties, mostly in Kenya’s Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs).
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki announced the allocation on Wednesday while co-chairing the 14th Development Partners Forum at his official residence in Karen, Nairobi.
He said the government, in collaboration with development partners, humanitarian organisations, and the private sector, will coordinate a comprehensive response to the country’s food and nutrition challenges.
“The government has disbursed over Sh.6 billion in the last month to support drought mitigation interventions, including distribution of food and non-food items, medical supplies, and water to citizens in affected areas,” Prof. Kindiki said.
He added that between August and December 2025, government and partners reached at least 1.4 million people through food aid, cash transfers, water provision, medical supplies, and targeted interventions for children at risk of malnutrition.
The Deputy President further pledged that the government would commit Sh2 billion every month, urging development partners to scale up support to ensure a comprehensive response to the drought. Authorities are also mobilising hay, vaccines, and water to protect livestock.
Speaking at the forum, Council of Governors Chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi warned of worsening conditions due to prolonged dry spells.
“The prolonged dry conditions are accelerating pasture depletion and limiting natural regeneration. Staple food prices have risen. There is increased reliance on food assistance and elevated risks of acute malnutrition, especially among children and pregnant and lactating women,” he said.
The forum was attended by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, UN Resident Coordinator Stephen Jackson, Germany’s Ambassador Sebastian Groth, and representatives from other development agencies.
The 10 counties identified as most affected are Wajir, Mandera, Garissa, Kilifi, Kitui, Marsabit, Kwale, Kajiado, Isiolo, and Tana River.
The drought is attributed to the failure of three consecutive rainfall seasons—October-December 2024, March-May 2025, and October-December 2025.
Last December, MPs from ASAL regions urged the government to declare the drought a national disaster, arguing that such a declaration would unlock emergency funding, streamline humanitarian support, and enable international partners to scale up interventions.
