Mandera County is facing an escalating humanitarian threat as the latest National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) Drought Early Warning Bulletin confirms the county remains in a critical drought phase.
According to the NDMA report, the drought is marked by severely below-average rainfall, depleted vegetation, water shortages and growing pressure on households that depend on livestock and farming.
The bulletin explained that Mandera’s drought situation is no longer a looming concern but a current humanitarian emergency that demands urgent, coordinated response efforts across multiple sectors.
The prolonged dry spell has resulted in failing water sources, forcing communities to trek long distances in search of potable water.
Pastures have been severely depleted, causing a sharp decline in livestock body condition, heightening the risk of livestock losses and undermining pastoral livelihoods.
Food insecurity is also deepening, with reduced household purchasing power limiting access to adequate nutrition.
The situation has further increased the vulnerability of children, women, and the elderly, who are the most affected during prolonged climate shocks.
The NDMA report warns that without swift intervention in water supply, food support, livestock protection, and social assistance, the situation could deteriorate further, putting thousands of households at greater risk.
Mandera leaders and humanitarian partners are being urged to intensify mitigation efforts to prevent the crisis from spiralling into a full-scale emergency.