By Betty Luke
A group of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO) operating in 23 Arid and Semi-Arid (ASAL) counties has appealed to the government to introduce measures to ensure transparency in distribution of food aid to Kenyans facing hunger in the region due to the ongoing drought.
The about 30 humanitarian organisations operating under ASAL Humanitarian Network (AHN) decried continued suffering of Kenyans despite the State having set aside Sh1.2 billion for relief food.
Speaking during a two day conference held in Isiolo town to find lasting solutions to the ongoing crisis, the group expressed fears that the dryspell could spark resource based conflicts due to depletion of pastures and drying of water sources across the regio.
Reports indicate that over 2.5 million Kenyans in ASAL counties are faced with hunger and need immediate food interventions.
“Tensions and conflict over resources are increasing as pastoralist communities are moving in search of water and pasture,” read part of the group’s press release.
The Network appealed to the government to increase the funding towards assisting vulnerable Kenyans and ensure the intended persons benefit.
They said it was unfortunate that some people in the government offices were taking advantage of the crisis to benefit themselves at the expense of the suffering locals by diverting the aid to their cronies.
“We call upon duty bearers to create social accountability mechanisms that will involve community humanitarian partners and stakeholders in planning, monitoring and implementation of the action,” said Mr Patrick Katelo of Pastoralist Community Initiative and Development Assistance (PACIDA).
Mr Ahmed Ibrahim, who convened the meeting, said that the ongoing government’s livestock off take program had not fully benefited herders as emaciated animals were not being bought.
“We appeal to the government to buy animals before they die and slaughter them for the locals and not just buying those in good body state,” said Mr Ibrahim.
Samburu Women Trust’s Jane Meruwas said many children had dropped out from school after their families migrated to other counties in search of water and pastures for their livestock.
She said animal feeds donated by the national government had not adequately cushioned the locals and urged the government to take action against the officers misappropriating the donation.
“We have had cases of government officers selling relief food meant for poor suffering people and we want action taken against them,” she appealed.
