Elfu Bob Club

Sunday, October 08, 2006

Famine Relief in Ukambani




During the long dry season (December to April) in Kenya each year, many communities suffer from drought and some families face starvation. The situation has become worse recently, due in part to climate change, deforestation of key Kenyan watersheds and diversion of streams and rivers. In February 2006, Elfu Bob support went to the Kwa Mwaitu group, headed by Dan (a UN staff member) and Mary Malonza, to provide maize and beans to needy families in Katangi, Machakos District. Media focus of the drought centred on northeastern Kenya and government assistance to the Ukambani region was insufficient. The maize and beans went directly to twelve of the most needy families, benefiting approximately 96 individuals. This timely contribution of foodstuffs was enough to see the families through the worst of the drought until the long rains began. While this temporary measure was welcomed in Katangi, Kwa Mwaitu are looking to offer long-term support to the region, especially in finding ways to increase fresh water availability for agriculture during times of drought. Many thanks to all the Elfu Bobbers and Kwa Mwaitu who made this small intervention possible!

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