The United States government, through the U.S Agency for International Development (USAID) has donated Ksh 16 billion in order to curb the ongoing drought in the country.
According to USAID, the funds will help in solving the quick needs of about 1.3 million people across Kenya.
The USAID said that more than four million people are in the grips of a dire hunger crisis, with the number expected to rise to over five million by June.
USAID 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.
Additionally, in areas where markets are functioning, partners will provide cash-based assistance for families to purchase food staples, which will, in turn, support local economies.
USAID will also support programs to prevent and treat child malnutrition, as more than 970,000 children ages five and younger 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 William Ruto has significantly welcomed the idea which comes following the United States of America First Lady Jill Biden a three-day visit to the country.
Ruto took to social media to appreciate the support that will cushion Kenyans against drought exacerbated by 4 years of failed or minimal rainfall.
“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.
