HIGHLIGHTS
General Overview
-
The Kenyan army moved into Somalia on 16 October 2011 in response to a series of kidnappings, including the most recent abduction of two MSF-Spain humanitarian staff from Ifo II West.
-
An al-Shabaab spokesperson responded the same day (16 October) that its militants were prepared to face advancing troops from Kenya. The spokesperson further threatened reprisals in Kenyan cities if authorities do not withdraw their troops from Somalia. Kenya’s Defence Minister responded that warnings will not stop the current military action.
-
A senior Somali army offer reported that the two Spanish hostages have been moved by al-Shabaab to the southern Somali port city of Kismayu. However, a press release from al-Shabaab issued on 17 October 2011 categorically denies involvement in any of the kidnappings.
-
Clashes between pastoralist tribes in Isiolo County in Eastern Province continue. Six schools closed and more than 1,000 students are affected by the violence, including secondary school students scheduled to begin national examinations on 18 October. More than 10 people have been killed since 14 October 2011. Rival ethnic groups are clashing over control of grazing land.
-
Heavy rains have been reported in several parts of the country, including along the coast; in northwestern Kenya near the Kakuma Refugee Camp; and in northeastern Kenya along the Wajir-Somalia border including the Dadaab Refugee Camps. In preparation for further flooding, the GoK and humanitarian partners, including UNICEF, have developed a contingency plan for the 2011 short rains (OctoberDecember). UNICEF also continues to preposition essential supplies to mitigate the likelihood of interrupted humanitarian efforts in northern Kenya.
-
Concerns of disease outbreaks have been reported by local officials and residents in Mombasa and other coastal communities following more than ten days of torrential rain and flash flooding. Seven people lost their lives and four others were seriously injured; houses, schools, roads and sewage systems destroyed or damaged; and large areas submerged making it difficult for residents to access clean water in Kenya’s second largest city, Mombasa. Operations at Mombasa port have been disrupted due to persistent power outages; destroyed road infrastructure; and an inability to allow ships to berth because of rough seas. UNICEF is following the situation through the Kenya Red Cross to determine what, if any, support is required to complement local efforts.