The government has spent Ksh9 billion on drought intervention efforts and could increase the allocation to Ksh13 billion as part of ongoing mitigation measures.
Speaking during an interview at a local TV station on Monday, March 2, 2026, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Rukusaid additional resources have also been set aside to address potential flooding.
“As far as flooding is concerned, we have budgeted Ksh1 billion so far, just in case we get massive flooding,” he said.
The CS emphasised that the administration of President William Ruto is committed to ensuring that no resources are spared in protecting lives and livelihoods.
“President William Ruto’s government is committed to ensuring that no resources will be spared to ensure Kenyans are not losing their lives and that the day-to-day activities they carry out are not interfered with,” Ruku stated.
Drought in Turkana
This comes a week after the Kenya Red Cross raised concerns about the worsening drought in parts of Turkana County, saying families are now surviving on wild beans to keep hunger at bay.
In a statement shared on Thursday, February 19, 2026, the humanitarian agency said the situation in Nakaruon village in Turkana East is dire, with mothers trekking long distances to gather wild beans, locally known as endungee. The beans, which are not part of the normal diet, must be boiled for more than eight hours before they are considered safe for consumption.
According to the Kenya Red Cross, the prolonged drought has left many households without food. Crops have failed, livestock have died, and families have been pushed to extreme measures just to survive. For many, the wild beans are the only available option despite the long hours required to prepare them and the limited nutritional value they provide.
“In Nakaruon village, Turkana East, mothers are searching for wild beans, locally known as endungee, to feed their children. The beans must be boiled for more than 8 hours before they are safe to eat. This is what drought has reduced families to. The Kenya Red Cross continues to respond, but urgent support is needed,” the agency said.
The agency noted that the drought has heavily affected vulnerable groups, especially children and expectant mothers. With food stocks depleted and water sources drying up, residents are facing harsh living conditions.
The Kenya Red Cross said it is continuing to respond to the crisis by providing humanitarian assistance, but warned that more support is urgently needed to meet the growing needs.
