WHO dispatches medical supplies to Kenya worth Sh9.7 million ahead of short rains

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has dispatched 10 tonnes of emergency medical supplies worth Sh9.7 million to five Kenyan counties in preparation for the upcoming short rain season.

The aid is set to benefit Kilifi, Homa Bay, Mandera, Turkana, and Kajiado counties, providing crucial support to at least 164,600 people.

The short rains, expected between October and December, often lead to a spike in waterborne diseases, respiratory infections, and other health issues in affected areas.

WHO's timely intervention aims to strengthen the capacity of these regions to manage potential medical emergencies that may arise during this period.

In a statement on Wednesday, WHO highlighted their commitment to improving healthcare resilience.

"To enhance preparedness for the effects of the short rains, WHO has dispatched 10 tonnes of emergency medicines and commodities valued at $75,838 (Sh9.7 million) to five counties," it reads.

The consignment includes essential medicines, medical supplies, and other vital resources designed to support healthcare services in these vulnerable areas.

This initiative reflects WHO's dedication to ensuring Kenya's healthcare system can effectively handle challenges posed by the short rains, especially in rural and hard-to-reach regions.

This effort is part of a broader strategy by WHO and its partners to help communities most at risk from seasonal weather patterns. The aim is to reduce health risks and save lives during the rainy season.

Part of the dispatched 10 tonnes of emergency medicines and commodities by the World Health Organisation to various counties in Kenya on September 18, 2024. (Photo: WHO)

In August 2024, the Kenya Meteorological Department recently released its forecast for the short rains.

"During OND 2024, the western sector of the country is expected to receive near to slightly above average rainfall, while the central parts of the country and isolated areas over the northeast and southeastern lowlands are likely to receive near to below average rainfall," reads the statement.

Affected counties

Dr David Gikungu, Head of Kenya Meteorological Department said 22 counties in western Kenya and most of the Rift Valley will be affected.

"The outlook for the next three months indicates that the Highlands West of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Central and South Rift Valley, Nyandarua and the western parts of Laikipia are expected to receive rainfall amounts which are likely to be above the August to October longterm means," he said.

This region comprises Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Migori, Busia, Kisii, Nyamira, West Pokot, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, Baringo, Laikipia, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Nakuru, Narok, Kericho, Bomet and Nyandarua counties.

Gikungu said Samburu and Turkana counties are likely to remain dry most of the time through October.

However, areas along the Uganda and South Sudan border may experience occasional rainfall, which is expected to be above the usual amounts.

He said the counties of Nairobi, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang'a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, Machakos, Makueni, Kitui, Taita Taveta, and parts of Kajiado are likely to experience cool and cloudy conditions with occasional rains in August that may extend into early September.

"Occasional rainfall is also expected, especially during the second half of October, with amounts near the August to October long-term means," Gikungu said.

The Coast (Mombasa, Tana River, Kilifi, Lamu, Kwale) is expected to remain dry throughout the forecast period, though a few days may have rainfall near to below the long-term means for August to October.

Northeastern Kenya (Mandera, Marsabit, Wajir, Garissa and Isiolo) will remain sunny and dry for most of the forecast period, with occasional rainfall possible towards the end of October.

This rainfall is expected to be below average over the Northeastern region.