The United States government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) announced Ksh16 billion aid for Kenyans grappling with prolonged drought and hunger.
First Lady Jill Biden had highlighted the plight of residents in drought-stricken areas left communities, arguing that the disaster left them with devastating consequences.
“As our world has become more connected, we have seen how hunger and violence, poverty and natural disasters, are not contained by borders.
“Our futures are woven together — and we must all come together to continue to help fight the effects of this historic drought,” Jill Biden pleaded on Sunday, February 26.
Responding to the grievances she raised, USAID administrator, Samantha Powell, on Monday, February 27, noted that the agency would advance Ksh16 billion to Kenyad.
“Rainfall in Kenya is now less than 70 per cent of the 30-year average across most of the country.
“This severe drought has caused a dire hunger crisis, and USAID announces Ksh16 billion in additional food assistance,” Powell detailed.
USAID stated that the donation will help 1.3 million Kenyans suffering from drought.
President William Ruto thanked USAID profusely for helping Kenya, remarking that the money would go a long way towards helping suffering Kenyans.
“On behalf of the people of Kenya, my profound gratitude to the US government for this generous support.
“The money will go to very deserving people suffering the worst drought due to four consecutive years of failed rains,” the President stated.
According to the Head of State, some of the money will be channeled towards water harvesting to enhance food and livestock production as well as manage climate change effects.
