Severe drought in Turkana leaves families and animals desperate for aid
By Ascah Mwango, February 10, 2026Kenya Red Cross has reported that families and livestock in Turkana East are facing extreme hardship due to the ongoing drought.
On Tuesday, February 10, 2026, the humanitarian organisation shared updates from its relief mission in Suguta Sub-County, where communities are struggling with scarce water and food.
During their journey, the Red Cross team came across livestock weakened by the harsh conditions. The team paused to give the animals water, helping them survive before continuing to assist the human population.
Once in Suguta, the team focused on children, distributing fortified porridge to 10 schools. In total, Kenya Red Cross said 6,120 children and their parents received support through the initiative, which was made possible with help from the Danish Red Cross.
“En route to Suguta in Turkana East for the drought response, we came across livestock weakened by the drought and paused to give them water before continuing our journey. In Suguta Sub-County, we distributed fortified porridge in 10 schools, reaching 6,120 children and their parents, thanks to the Danish Red Cross,” the organisation stated.
Turkana County has been severely affected by prolonged dry spells, leaving many families dependent on humanitarian aid.
Kenya is facing a worsening drought, with over 23 counties affected.
Speaking on January 28, 2026, Kenya Red Cross Secretary General Ahmed Idris said the situation is worsening due to a failed rainy season. He highlighted 11 counties of greatest concern, including Marsabit, Mandera, Turkana, and Wajir.
Idris noted that this drought is unusual, with some areas within a county hit harder than others. He pointed to Baringo County, where most areas are dry but not critical, while Tiaty Sub-County is experiencing severe conditions.
He warned that the next two months will likely remain dry, and even when rains arrive, they may not be enough to ease the crisis.