Nairobi, 7th June 2000
Due to circumstances which are beyond
her control Kenya is in the grip of very worrying natural calamities, which
include extreme drought conditions, a spreading and deepening famine and
a devastating AIDS pandemic. Over the last eight years, and on an almost
continuous basis, Kenya has witnessed vicissitudes of an extreme dry spell
in 1992, heavy rains and floods in 1997 - 98 (el nino), followed again
by the current dry spell (la nina) in most parts of the country.
30 districts have been affected by the current dry spell, 18 of which have been severely hit.
The resultant effect has been both food and water insecurity for both man and animal, which has necessitated continuous food and medical relief operations by both the Government and Non Governmental Organizations and Agencies. Indeed, the dismal failure of short rains last year and long rains this year has wiped out the livelihood of a large population that is vulnerable. Non food priorities, such as water, human health, livestock health and infrastructure, are also increasingly taking centre stage.
As at now, almost 3 million Kenyans are absolutely destitute and require emergency food relief, and life saving support in terms of water and medical services. But as the drought deepens the numbers are also swelling. In fact 80% of the Kenyan population is currently at risk, but the government is monitoring the situation, and has put in place the necessary modalities for a major food importation undertaking which will entail massive and expensive logistical operations. In this regard, my government has been working in close consultation with the United Nations agencies.
The government wishes to publicly acknowledge the positive cooperation and support which the United Nations has given both to the government and the people of Kenya.
It is important, at this stage, to clearly state that the priority life saving requirements which my government is appealing for, from the local and international communities, have not been brought about by any conflict, civil unrest or human displacements, as is the case in many countries. Kenya is not at war with herself or with any other country. The appeal for support is wholly due to natural calamities which have befallen our beloved country.
The government acknowledges that earlier appeals have resulted in a high level of positive response.
The implementation of resultant activities and use of resources have been transparent, and in line with the present reform initiatives. Given the intensity of the calamity we wish to further appeal for more help. We estimate that the cost of required commodities and services will be in the region of 11.5 billion Kenya Shillings, of which food will take 85%, while water and sanitation, health and nutrition, livestock, agriculture and education will take the rest.
Daniel T. Arap Moi
President of the Republic of Kenya