More Food Aid Sought For Kenya

NAIROBI - Oct 14/04 - SNS -- Additional food aid pledges are needed to offset a rising shortfall in Kenya, where an estimated 2.3 million people in 26 districts are facing severe food shortages as a result of a prolonged drought, the Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET) reported this week.

"As of 4 October 2004, confirmed pledges amounted to US $45.1 million out of the total food requirement valued at $81.3 million," FEWS NET said in its latest food security update on Kenya.

It noted that although the cereals shortfall was likely to be met, less than 50% of the corn soya blend (CSB) and pulses requirement was so far available. "Food commodities need to be in the country by the end of December 2004 if distributions are to occur before the next harvest begins in early February 2005," FEWS NET said.

The short rains were expected to begin in mid-October, and pastures and water sources should begin to improve, but little or no milk or crop output was expected until February 2005, the report said. Subsequently, household food security was likely to worsen, especially among pastoral households where rates of child malnutrition were beginning to rise.

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