Kenya has received Sh2.5 billion from the European Union to counter the ongoing drought.
The funds, which will be managed by the National Drought Management Authority, will be used to contain the impact of the drought among the most affected communities, especially in northern Kenya and the Coast region.
Speaking yesterday in Lodwar, EU Ambassador to Kenya Stefano Dejak said the donation is expected to address the most urgent needs of the affected people and contribute to strengthening the capacity of counties and local communities to respond to disasters
"When we look at the impact of drought and climate change, we need to look at the capacity of counties and communities to better respond to disasters, cope with crises in a timely manner, and invest in strategies that will help them recover," said Dejak.
He announced that the additional funding was part of the EU's overall contribution to complement government efforts to strengthen and institutionalise drought management.
"This is about protecting the livelihoods of vulnerable communities. It will enhance the purchasing power of those affected while reducing loss of assets and protecting the livelihoods of vulnerable households during droughts," he said.
President Uhuru Kenyatta welcomed the support from the EU.
"I am particularly grateful to note that EU support also extends to the other counties in the arid and semi-arid regions and will go a long way in ensuring that Kenya is food-secure," he said.
The President has declared the raging drought a national disaster and called for international help.
The drought, which has been going on for more than a year now, has been flagged as one of the biggest threats to livelihoods in arid and semi-arid areas and a major impediment to the realisation of Vision 2030.
The government has listed 23 counties as the most affected by drought, with the most hard-hit counties being Kilifi, Kwale, Tana River, and Taita Taveta.
Other severely affected counties include Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Isiolo, Marsabit, Makueni, Kitui, and Samburu.
