Delayed Disaster interventions: A study of mitigation opportunities in humanitarian response to drought and food insecurity in Kenya A case study of Kenya Food Security Steering Group

Abstract

This study established the causes of delayed disaster interventions by exploring the works and processes of drought response and food insecurity management by KFSSG and determined the available opportunities in humanitarian response to the same. The study was aimed at addressing delays in disaster response in Kenya, a situation that resulted to loss of lives and livelihood. The 2005-06 famine is estimated to have . caused Kenya Ksh. 450 million that would have been otherwise used for development had proper mitigation and preparedness efforts put in place. The study focused on the activities of the Kenya Food Security Steering Group (KFSSG) based in Nairobi, and whose mandate involved drought and food security management. The goal of the study was to establish causal factors underlying delayed intervention against drought related disasters in Kenya, as well recommend mitigation measures against loss of human lives and human suffering The research reviewed the chaos and coping theory. Chaos theory attempts to explain how disaster occurs while coping theory explain how communities cope with disruptions in the system. The study covered the work of 40 agencies, all members of KFSSG. To collect the desired data, the research utilized questionnaires observation and data review. A key informant guide was used to gather information fr~m key officials in the group. This guide contained open ended questions that allowed further probing of relevant information. Data gathered was coded according to commonality of themes and analyzed using percentages, frequencies and modes. The research found out that over the last year, there has been increased funding towards drought management and food security projects. However, decision of funding was ad hoc and most organizations did not access funds for preparedness. It was also revealed that there was policy gaps in the country as far as drought and food insecurity are concerned. Due to lack of policy in funding, the study revealed that there lacked substantial plans on the future of drought management and food security, a situation that threatened the sustainability of currently ongoing efforts. • There were no apparently proper contingency plans in the event that Kenya experienced a major drought and food insecurity. Deficiencies in programming and funding stated herein were attributed to the delays in humanitarian responses to drought and food insecurity. In conclusion, the research find out that though there are improved efforts in the area of humanitarian response to food insecurity and drought management, there were still hindrances to the process that threatened lives and livelihoods. As a result, the study highly recommends review of programming of drought and food security projects, increased funding and capacity building of the community living in drought prone zones. The study further recommends review of policy and research in viable livelihood options within the Arid and Semi Arid regions.