Kenya flags off relief food to drought stricken areas

Below average rainy seasons in the Arid and Semi-Arid regions of Kenya have led to the longest drought in at least 40 years, leaving 4.2 million people in need of humanitarian assistance. President William Ruto on Monday officially flagged off relief food to Counties affected by severe drought.

The 50 trucks of relief food were carrying 20,000 bags of rice, 20,000 bags of beans, and assorted animal feed together with cooking oil. The food will go to about 3.5 million citizens in Garissa, Mandera, Wajir, Marsabit, Baringo and Kajiado Counties.

Speaking during the ceremony at State House Nairobi, President Ruto said the next consignment of food to areas affected by drought will be on Friday, and on a weekly basis.

He instructed the Ministry of Water to urgently mobilize water boozers to deliver water to many parts of Kenya to also manage the effects.

The Head of State also asked the National Treasury to work with the Counties in order to adjustment to the various interventions required to make it much easier for Kenyans to deal with the current situation.