News

2010 food crisis for Kenya

Kenya faces a food crisis next year due to drought.

Kenya could be in grave need of drought assistance from next year after the rainy season failed to bring enough precipitation for crops and livestock.

News source the Daily Nation reported that following the dryness of the November rain period, farmers and herdsmen were headed towards famine.

The most recent meteorological report was released indicating "unprecedented" dry spells in most of the country. Cattle drivers who had travelled to the centre of the country to get their livestock to green pastures were quoted as saying they were "disappointed" by what was available.

Overcrowding in the few fertile areas has led to a rise in cholera - and the hydroelectric dams, at only 57 per cent of their capacity, are predicted to be unable to generate enough power. This is expected to result in a rise in electricity prices.

Increasingly popular geothermal energy projects and localised solar power schemes could potentially provide the population of Kenya with vital drought and famine assistance.

The Kenya Broadcasting Corporation quoted World Bank vice-president of the African region Ms Obiageli Ezekwesili as urging the country to accelerate the development of these renewable sources to improve its chances of thriving in a world affected by climate change.