Hard truths. Bold Insights. Real talk.
The Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET) estimates that between 2 million and 2.49 million people will need urgent food assistance in March 2027. This would mark a decline from the 3.5 million to 3.99 million people projected to require assistance in September 2026.
According to the report, total national government expenditure on social services is projected to fall to Sh67.2 billion in the 2025/26 financial year, down from Sh74.0 billion in the previous year. The drop is mainly linked to reduced recurrent spending in the State Department for Social Protection and Senior Citizen Affairs.
The revision aligns with Kenya’s broader refugee inclusion agenda under the 2021 Refugees Act, which promotes participation, integration, and access to services.
The food shortage has been made worse by the complete halt in cash assistance, which used to help refugees access other basic food items.
The committee highlighted the government’s minimal role in refugee management, which remains heavily controlled by international agencies.
Starting in June, food rations will be reduced to just 28 percent of daily nutritional requirements, while all cash assistance will be suspended unless urgent funding is secured.