Kenya is experiencing one of the most complicated emergencies in humanitarian history in the recent years with various overlapping shocks transforming vulnerability in the country. We believe in sound, evidence-based insights to inform preparedness, response, and long-term resilience planning at Kichata Research Ltd.
The recent analysis of its emergency issued under the IFRC DREF Operation MDRKE068 states that the crisis is being generated by the two phenomena: a severe drought and devastating floods, the rebirth of cholera pandemics, and a drastic drop in humanitarian financing. Due to below-average rainfall and two subsequent failed seasons, people are in IPC Phase 3 or above in the arid and semi-arid lands, and it is estimated that 2.1 million people will be in acute food insecurity by the beginning of 2026. Thresholds of acute malnutrition continue to be critical in a number of counties, indicating the further strain on strained health systems.
At the same time, western Kenya is also dealing with massive flooding and landslides that have not only left households displaced but also farmlands and access to basic services disrupted. Landslides in Elgeyo Marakwet and extensive flooding in Trans Nzoia and Tana River counties identify the increasing uncertainty of climate hazards.
The situation is aggravated by disease epidemics. Decreasing access to WASH and overwhelmed health facilities have been identified to be the cause of a new wave of cholera transmission, which spread throughout Narok, Nairobi, Migori, and various ASAL counties. The low financial expenditure by the global community has further stretched the outreach services, which has restricted access to treatment and prevention.
This complicated emergency highlights an important fact high-quality research and real-time analytics should lead the decision-making. To the responders and policymakers, changing risks, unmet needs, and mapping service gaps are the keys to saving lives and preventing livelihoods.
At Kichata Research Ltd we are still dedicated to assisting the governments, humanitarian organizations and development partners with evidence based evaluations, socio-economic analysis and monitoring structures that enhance resilience amid the changing crises in Kenya.
This is a difficult reality for many families. Hopefully the findings from studies like these can help direct support where it’s needed most.
Very informative article. The evidence-based approach discussed here is something both government and development partners should continue investing in.
Thanks for sharing this. It’s encouraging to see organisations emphasizing research instead of assumptions when responding to humanitarian needs.
This is an eye-opener. I hadn’t realised how floods, disease outbreaks and funding shortages are all connected.
Well written. It highlights that emergencies are rarely caused by one issue alone but by several challenges happening at the same time.
ASAL communities have faced repeated challenges for years. More investment in long-term resilience is definitely needed.
The point about combining real-time data with decision-making really stood out. Responses should always be informed by evidence.
Many people only hear about these crises in the news. This article explains the bigger picture quite well.
It’s heartbreaking to read about the challenges affecting so many communities. Hopefully research continues to guide better interventions.
Good summary of the current situation. Humanitarian organisations really need reliable data before deciding where to focus resources.
Climate-related disasters seem to be happening more often now. Articles like this show why preparedness should be taken seriously.
Sad to read, but it’s an important reminder that humanitarian work needs reliable data. Without understanding where the biggest needs are, it’s difficult to respond effectively.