Drought Crisis Spreads in Kenya, Affecting Beyond Arid North. Nairobi, Kenya — 2026-02-07 Lead Paragraph: A severe drought, one of the driest on record, is spreading across Kenya, affecting regions beyond the traditionally arid north.
The 2025 short rains, which occurred between October and December, provided only 30 to 60 percent of the long-term average, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
This has led to the driest season on record since 1981 in parts of eastern Kenya, putting ten counties, including Wajir, Garissa, and Kilifi, into the “alert phase.”Body: The drought’s impact is being felt across various communities, with herder groups like the Maasai pastoralists being among the most affected.
Many have suffered significant losses of livestock, including cows and goats, with some herders reporting losses of over 100 cattle and 300 goats.
The value of livestock has plummeted, forcing herders to sell off their animals at distress prices to compete for limited resources. Increased competition for resources is a growing concern as the drought intensifies.
The situation is not only affecting Kenya but is also causing concern in neighboring countries such as Somalia, Tanzania, and Uganda, where similar weather patterns are leading to food insecurity and malnutrition risks.
Reaction and Implications: The Kenyan government has declared a drought emergency for Mandera county, placing it in the “alarm stage.”
The situation has prompted regional and international responses, with officials and organizations emphasizing the need for urgent aid and support for affected communities.
The full extent of the crisis is still unfolding, with further details expected as the situation develops.
The government and aid organizations are working to provide relief and support to those affected, but challenges remain in reaching all affected areas due to the vast and diverse nature of the crisis.
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Source: [Drought spreads beyond Kenya’s arid north, plunging herders into crisis — Reuters]( Reuters.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
