As the drought crisis in Kenya continues to worsen, a group of Senators from affected regions has called on President William Ruto to declare the drought a national disaster. In a statement released on Wednesday, February 1, the Senators emphasized the urgency of the situation, warning that the affected communities are on the brink of famine and starvation.
The Parliamentarians also criticized the government’s stance on the crisis, lamenting that despite the severity of the situation, the government has not declared the drought a national disaster, hindering aid efforts from non-state actors. The Senators implored the government to take immediate action, including declaring the drought a national disaster, carrying out emergency assessments in all affected counties, and providing relief food to those in need.
According to the National Drought Management Authority, the number of Kenyans affected by the drought has reached around six million, with the failed fifth rainy season causing critical conditions in 20 of the 23 Arid and Semi-Arid Land counties. The Senators also called on non-state actors and well-wishers to come to the aid of these communities and help mitigate the effects of the ongoing crisis.
The Parliamentarians emphasized the importance of saving the lives of Kenyans and animals affected by the drought and called on the government to prioritize this issue. With the situation getting worse by the day, the Senators are urging President William Ruto to take immediate action to address the devastating impact of the drought.
