In Kenya, the drought situation has worsened significantly following one of the driest rainy seasons recorded at the end of 2025. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that the short rains from October to December delivered only 30 to 60 percent of the long-term average in various regions, marking the driest season since 1981 for parts of eastern Kenya. This severe lack of rainfall has moved the drought beyond the northern regions of the country, where such events are typically concentrated.

Currently, ten counties are facing drought conditions, including places historically less susceptible to drought, such as Kilifi, Kajiado, and Tana River. These areas were recognized as being in the "alert phase" as of late January 2026, while Mandera county has escalated to a drought emergency, categorized in the "alarm stage." This newly affected region increases concern for food and water security as pastoralists and their livestock suffer greatly from the prolonged dry conditions.

The implications of such widespread drought conditions are dire, particularly for herder communities which rely heavily on livestock for their livelihoods. As these regions face a grim scenario of declining food and water supplies, the potential for increased humanitarian needs also rises, complicating an already challenging situation for Kenya as it seeks to address the impacts of climate change and resource scarcity.