Isiolo Residents Appeal for Aid as Malnutrition Levels Rise
Residents of Isiolo County have raised concerns over the increasing cases of malnutrition following the suspension of USAID-funded nutrition programs. The affected communities have called upon humanitarian organizations and the government to intervene as they face worsening food insecurity.
A field officer working with the Nawiri Mashinani program, Bakasa Abdi reported, malnutrition levels had significantly reduced from 90% to 20% due to the intervention of USAID-funded initiatives. However, following the termination of USAID activities in Kenya under the directive of President Donald Trump, the situation has rapidly deteriorated.
Residents from areas such as Dakiye, Korbesa, and Biliqi among others who previously benefited from monthly food aid and cash transfers under the Nawiri program expressed distress over their current situation.
“We used to receive support through food distribution, cash transfers, and even livestock feed, which helped us sustain our families,” said Mohammed Duba, a resident of Dakiye. “Now, many mothers and children are suffering, with visible signs of malnutrition.”
The discontinuation of the program has left thousands vulnerable, particularly pregnant and lactating mothers who depended on nutritional education and resources provided by the initiative. Abdi emphasized the importance of continued awareness programs on proper nutrition to prevent further deterioration in health conditions.
The situation has prompted an urgent appeal to both government and non-governmental organizations to step in and revive similar nutrition-focused initiatives.
A recent SMART survey conducted in 2024 indicated a slight decrease in malnutrition levels from 15.4% in 2023 to 13.7% in 2024 during the implementation of USAID programs. However, with their suspension, local health officials fear a sharp rise in cases.
Abdi and other community leaders are calling for immediate intervention, urging well-wishers, NGOs, and the national government to provide relief food and resume financial support for affected families.
“If no action is taken, the situation will only get worse,” Abdi warned. “We need urgent support to protect the lives of our children and vulnerable families.”
The residents of Isiolo are appealing to humanitarian agencies and the government to take swift action in addressing the growing food insecurity crisis. They stress the importance of continuity in nutrition programs to prevent further suffering in the region.