Kenyans have expressed their dissatisfaction with the the governments response to the ongoing crisis in the northern region that has left many in hunger as a result of drought.
Currently an estimated 1 million people are facing the danger of starving from 12 counties that have been hit hard by the drought that has been attributed to delayed rains.
THE “LONG RAINS” MARCH-APRIL-MAY (MAM) SEASON UPDATE
The season constitutes an important rainfall season in Kenya and more so in the Western, Rift Valley and Central regions. This seasonal rainfall highly impacts on the agricultural sector and hence food security in the country. pic.twitter.com/vZAhAlthgF— Kenya Met Department (@MeteoKenya) March 18, 2019
In a statement last week, the government said Kenya will spend 2 billion shillings in anti-drought measures. DP William Ruto said logistical factors, including lack of enough trucks to ship food to the drought-stricken areas, have slowed the response.
Drought and hunger trending.again 🤦🏽♂️
Waiting for the paybill nos and food donation for posterity👌🏽
Next long rains,then it’s floods and ferterlizer.cycle continues until reboot the system in 2023— CantinaDiFrascati (@FrascatiHouse) March 19, 2019
Organizers have taken to the airwaves and social media to urge Kenyans to reach out.
WONDERS NEVER CEASE! ODM launches another paybill number to help Baringo residents, this time the paybill number carrier is the pharmacist, Kalonzo got tired. The opposition that should keep the govt in check now wants to milk from the poor citizens to help!! Handchieth swallowed pic.twitter.com/jU3dxsnWkF— Ja Loka🇰🇪 (@_fels1) March 18, 2019
However a number of Kenyans are still divided with supporting the victims with claims the taxes should oversee the process instead of laying another burden on generous Kenyans. However though, the process is voluntary and will be carried out by Kenya red cross.
The drought has sparked a show of unity in a nation that was on the brink of a civil war two years ago following a disputed presidential election that split the country along tribal lines.
Genuine charity work is conducted through independent and regularized PUBLIC organizations such as the @KenyaRedCross, which receive and deliver ethical donations throughout the country. Individuals broadcasting their “donations” are not genuine . #SonkoHelpsTurkana #JKLive— Dr. Miguna Miguna (@MigunaMiguna) March 20, 2019
The first food shipments have already gone to the region