Meru County appeals for more support in drought mitigation

A Member of Parliament from Meru County has called on the national government to urgently provide relief food to residents of Tigania, where prolonged dry conditions have left many households struggling to access adequate meals. The plea, originally raised during a public address in Tigania, highlights rising concerns over the worsening drought situation that has affected crops, livestock, and water sources across the region. Local leaders say the area, which relies heavily on rain-fed agriculture, has been hit hard by failed rains, leaving families vulnerable and forcing the community to seek immediate assistance.
The appeal has sparked mixed reactions among Kenyans, with some expressing surprise over reports of hunger in Meru—a region often associated with agricultural productivity. Others, however, pointed out that climate change and shifting rainfall patterns have increasingly exposed even traditionally food-secure counties to drought. Community members in Tigania have confirmed that many households are already feeling the impact, with dried-up farms, dwindling food supplies, and limited livestock pasture. Leaders in the region have dismissed claims that the situation is exaggerated, insisting that the request for government support is based on genuine need and not political posturing.
As the drought situation continues to evolve, attention now turns to how quickly relief interventions can reach the affected population. Stakeholders warn that delays could worsen the humanitarian situation, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and low-income households. Looking ahead, county officials and development partners are urging long-term drought mitigation strategies, including water harvesting, climate-resilient farming, and improved early-warning systems. They emphasize that with climate unpredictability becoming more frequent, Meru—like many other Kenyan counties—must strengthen its preparedness to safeguard communities from future food crises.