Kitui county drought early warning bulletin for january 2026
National Drought Management Authority (NDMA)
Download
Abstract: This drought early warning bulletin for Kitui County in January 2026 provides a comprehensive assessment of climatic conditions, vegetation status, water availability, and socio-economic impacts across livelihood zones. The county experienced predominantly dry conditions with rainfall at only 28% of normal (2.5-2.1 mm in first two dekads), resulting in below-normal vegetation greenness and poor pasture conditions. Most crops failed with complete crop failure in some areas, household cereal stocks critically depleted, and livestock body condition deteriorating. Water access indicators show trekking distances above long-term average and water prices spiking above normal levels. Food security worsened significantly with 4.5% of households in the poor consumption category and increased reliance on crisis coping mechanisms. The county was classified in Alert phase with worsening trend, particularly affecting the Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone which was in Alarm phase.