Kenyans have been advised to brace for severe food shortages over the next three months. A new report by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) shows that more than two million people will be affected.
Millions Already Struggling
The report notes that 1.8 million Kenyans are already experiencing food shortages. Out of this number, 179,000 people are facing extreme food insecurity. Families in the northeastern counties of Mandera, Isiolo, Garissa, and Baringo are among the hardest hit.
Children and Mothers Most Vulnerable
Children remain the most at risk. According to IPC data, 741,000 children aged between six months and four years are suffering from acute malnutrition. A further 178,938 children in the same age bracket face extreme malnutrition.
Mothers are also struggling. Over 109,000 pregnant women across the country are reported to be food deficient. Experts warn that this could worsen health outcomes for both mothers and infants.
Aid Cuts and Rising Prices
The situation has been made worse by the recent decision of the United States government to cut food aid. This has left many families without support. At the same time, reduced harvests are expected to push food prices higher. For rural households that depend on subsistence farming, this could lead to even deeper hardship.
Weather Outlook Worsens
The Kenya Meteorological Department predicts below-average rainfall between October and December. September and early October will remain largely dry. The short rains are expected to begin mid-October but will remain uneven and weak until December. Poor rainfall means lower crop yields and limited pasture for livestock.
Call for Urgent Action
Authorities and aid agencies are urging Kenyans to prepare for difficult months ahead. Stakeholders are also being called upon to provide urgent support to vulnerable families, especially children and mothers.
Without timely intervention, experts warn that the country could face a deeper food crisis before the end of the year.
