Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has warned that Kenya is facing a severe drought and food crisis that requires urgent attention.
Speaking on Tuesday, Gachagua said about 3.3 million people are already experiencing high levels of food insecurity, and the situation is expected to worsen as below-average rains, rising temperatures, and failing harvests continue to affect livelihoods.
“As of December 2025, the crisis was particularly severe among the most vulnerable. More than 741,000 children under five are acutely malnourished, and over 109,000 pregnant and lactating women need treatment,” he said.
Gachagua also highlighted the growing problem of water scarcity. Women and children, he said, carry the heaviest burden of walking long distances, missing school, and facing higher risks of disease and malnutrition.
He noted that the crisis is especially harsh during Ramadan, when families already fasting must endure hunger and thirst forced by circumstances.
The Democracy for Citizens Party leader urged President William Ruto to declare the drought in northern Kenya a national disaster.
“This would unlock both national and international support to save lives, protect livelihoods, and restore dignity to affected communities,” he said.
Gachagua called for proactive measures to prevent the crisis from worsening, including building water pumps and dams and ensuring timely allocation of emergency funds.
He warned that three failed rainy seasons have already pushed communities to the brink.
