Kenya News Inside Health

More than two million people in Kenya are facing worsening food insecurity following the October–December 2025 rainy season, which ranks among the driest on record, according to the World Health Organization.

The prolonged drought has heightened malnutrition risks, increased the likelihood of disease outbreaks, and disrupted access to essential health services, particularly in vulnerable and hard to reach communities.

Drought conditions across multiple counties

The WHO reported that 10 counties in Kenya are currently experiencing drought conditions, with at least one classified in the “alarm” phase. In addition, 13 counties in the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) regions are showing signs of drought stress, raising concerns about further deterioration if conditions persist.

While severe, the agency noted that the emergency reflects a known seasonal risk, underscoring the importance of preparedness and early action.

Regional impacts extend beyond Kenya

The drought is also affecting neighbouring countries, including Somalia, Tanzania, and Uganda, where millions more people face heightened food and water insecurity due to similar weather patterns and prolonged water shortages.

Health response and preparedness measures

In Kenya, the WHO has been supporting national and county authorities by pre-positioning medical supplies in high-risk areas ahead of the peak drought period. This includes the provision of cholera kits, pneumonia kits, and other essential health commodities aimed at preventing and managing disease outbreaks linked to water scarcity and poor nutrition.

Call for urgent action

The WHO stressed the need for urgent mobilisation to ensure that both people and livestock have access to adequate food supplies and safe water, warning that delays could significantly worsen health and humanitarian outcomes.

Without timely intervention, the agency cautioned, the combined effects of food insecurity, malnutrition, and disease risk could place additional strain on already fragile health systems in drought-affected areas.

Source: World Health Organization (WHO)

By Inside Health Desk / 22. January 2026/ Urge- DeveWire

Kenya Drought Leaves Over Two Million People at Risk, WHO Warns

Reporting By Urge- Inside Health Desk.

Urge- Growth Daily

Urge- DevWire

Urge Skill-Up

Knowledge is power.

Stay connected. Be informed.