news & events
out of hunger in Kenya
Keeping livestock, including goats, cattle and camels, helps people to cope in times of drought
In 2006, the eyes of the world were on western Kenya. Food shortages reached the level of a national disaster and precious cattle were dying, leaving the lives of children, pregnant women and the elderly at risk.
Although drought is common in this area, last year's was particularly harsh. In the areas where MRDF partner Samburu Integrated Programme (SIP) works it had not rained for two years.
Donations from MRDF supporters helped to provide emergency food aid and continue to provide families with longer-term food security as part of an MRDF pledge to provide £300,000 for partners to improve food security in West, East and Southern Africa.
Suffering but surviving
Lenareu's family was one of many who benefited from SIP's emergency feeding centres. His family had no food, milk or even water. He was so pleased that his wife and children could receive free, nutritious porridge that he volunteered as a cook at the feeding centre to help prepare food for others.
Today, their situation has improved. Goats and some small-scale trading provide food and income for the family. "We are still suffering," says Lenareu, "but we are surviving and we thank God for that."
Free school milk
Although emergency relief like this can be life-saving, SIP works mainly with communities to help strengthen them before drought or disaster strikes.
For example, SIP has provided Waso Rongai primary school with a herd of goats. The goats provide milk and meat for the pupils, and are bred and sold to support the school. School enrollment has shot up now that parents know their children will have enough to eat during the day. Most of these goats were moved to higher areas during the drought and so managed to survive.
“In an area like this, where rain is very scarce, livestock is far more important than agriculture,” explains MRDF Programme Officer Samantha Tuck after visiting the region. “Cattle, goats and camels are essential to provide people with security and sustenance in the longer term.”
