Red Cross buys livestock, feeds hungry families

By Peter Orengo

Two humanitarian agencies have launched a massive destocking exercise in Marsabit to save pastoralists whose livestock are dying in thousands from further losses.

The exercise that kicked off at the weekend would see the International Federation of Red Cross (IFRC) and Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) buy livestock, which would then be slaughtered and given to households most affected by the ongoing famine in parts of the country.

"A goat or sheep, which normally costs Sh800 will be bought at Sh2,000. The meat from one animal is to be divided between four households while the money will help supplement their diet," said KRCS Communications Officer Nelly Muluka.

Animals, including the most resilient camels and donkeys, are dying in hundreds following a long spell of drought Marsabit. [PHOTO: peter orengo/STANDARD]

Two weeks ago, KRCS launched a drought appeal but the response has not been encouraging. The organisation’s head of Disaster Response, Abdishakur Othowai, said early action was critical in mitigation as the situation continues to unfold.

Other well-wishers

"Our assessment shows drought is evolving so fast in different regions in the country. What we need is the Government and other well-wishers to join us help these people before it is too late," said Othowai.

Counties most affected are Upper Eastern (Masarbit, Moyale, Isiolo, Samburu and Tharaka), North Rift (Turkana and West Pokot), North Eastern (Garrisa, Wajir and Mandera), Coast Region (Kwale, Lamu, Malindi, Kilifi and Tana River), Lower Eastern (Kitui South and Kajiado) and South Rift (Baringo, Mogotio and Narok).

Red Cross says some areas including Burgabo and Bobisa in North Horr, have not had rains for two years. The condition is so bad that even the most resilient of animals like camels and donkeys are dying.

"There have been reports of livestock deaths, acute food shortage and increased migration by communities due to depletion of pasture and water for their livestock. This situation is likely to spark off conflict between herders and host communities," said Ms Muluka.