Kenya is facing a severe drought caused by late, below normal, poorly distributed rains during 2025’s long rains (March-May) and short rains (October– December 2025). The cause of the drought is attributed to the effects of La Niña and a negative Indian Ocean Dipole, which typically suppresses rainfall in the Horn of Africa (ACAPS). Initially, Kenya’s October -December 2024 short rains were classified as below average overall, severely affecting food security and livelihoods, particularly across the 23 arid and semi-arid lands (UNOCHA)
The Government of Kenya, through the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA), has implemented a Hunger Safety Net Programme (HSNP), which provides USD 20 (KES 2,700) monthly cash transfers to vulnerable households in Arid and Semi-arid lands (ASAL) counties. However, coverage and impact remain limited due to funding constraints. Kenya’s national drought contingency plans exist under the National Drought Management Agency (NDMA), though full activation is constrained by financing gaps (NDMA).
In late 2025, Members of Parliament from the Northeastern Region of Kenya issued public warnings about the escalating drought, calling on the government to declare the current drought a national disaster to facilitate urgent humanitarian support.
Women, children, the elderly, especially from pastoral households living in arid and semi-arid lands, are the most affected.
ACT Kenya Forum members intend to respond to the drought situation in their areas of work.
