Nairobi, Kenya – Former Deputy President and Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has called on the government to urgently declare the ongoing drought in North Eastern Kenya a national disaster, warning that residents are facing severe hunger, thirst, and lack of medical care.
In a strongly worded statement released on Saturday, January 31, 2026, Gachagua accused leaders in the region of neglecting vulnerable communities and failing in their responsibility to protect lives and livelihoods.
Worsening Humanitarian Crisis
Gachagua described the situation as having deteriorated to alarming levels, with livestock dying due to lack of food and water a clear sign, he noted, of the worsening humanitarian crisis.
“Leadership is not a privilege for personal gain but a responsibility to protect human life and dignity. Judged by this standard and its wisdom, the situation in North Eastern Kenya demands an honest conversation, self reflection and urgent action,” he said.
He highlighted the plight of orphans, widows, and the sick, saying many families are going without food and basic healthcare because of what he termed greed and poor governance.
“Today, conditions in the region have deteriorated so severely that even camels, animals that have evolved over time to endure some of the harshest environments on planet earth, are dying from thirst and hunger. If this is the fate of such resilient and adaptable creatures, what hope remains for human beings in the region?”
Appeal for Urgent Action
The DCP leader urged the national government to mobilize all available resources to address the crisis and save lives. He also appealed to the international community and development partners to provide immediate humanitarian assistance to affected communities.
“Even as we demand accountability and continue to firmly hold the leaders of North Eastern Kenya responsible for neglecting the Ummah, we call upon the Government to urgently declare the ongoing drought a national disaster and to mobilize all available resources to save lives,” said Gachagua.
“We further appeal to the International Community and Development Partners to step in and provide immediate humanitarian assistance to alleviate the suffering of the affected communities.”
Conclusion
Gachagua’s remarks underscore the severity of the drought in North Eastern Kenya and the urgent need for coordinated action. As livestock perish and families struggle to survive, the call for declaring the crisis a national disaster highlights the growing pressure on both local and international actors to respond swiftly and decisively.
