The range of environmental, production, access and utilisation indicators monitored by the national drought early warning system fell within their usual ranges following the good performance of the 2023 short rains season. Consequently, all the 23 counties classified as Arid and Semi-Arid lands (ASALs) were categorised under the ‘Normal’ phase in January. However, the emergence of other risks associated with the enhanced rainfall such as Rift Valley Fever (RVF) reported in Marsabit and Wajir counties continued to undermine full drought and food security recovery.

The functioning of markets, flow of food and other commodities almost stabilised across the ASAL counties during the month under review. However, upsurge of livestock diseases such as RVF, Foot and Mouth Disease, among others, may restrict livestock movements to these markets, thus disrupting functionality. The ongoing multi-sectoral assessment of the impact of the 2023 short rains on food and nutrition security will provide a clearer situation update, including the number of people requiring humanitarian assistance.

Download the National Monthly Drought Update – January 2024