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A continuing food crisis

In Kenya, approximately 35% of the population lives in urban areas, and 60% of Nairobi's inhabitants (approximately 2 million people) are crammed into one of 143 unofficial slums surrounding the Kenyan capital.

The majority of these slums do not have sewer systems, household refuse collection systems or water-drainage systems. Landslides are common and space is limited because it is mostly occupied by makeshift shelters.

The violent post-electoral conflicts of December and January 2008 have particularly affected these already vulnerable populations. Markets and small stalls were destroyed and jobs were lost in an environment where economic opportunities were already scarce. This led to a very high unemployment rate.

The return to normality has been slow. The global food crisis of 2008 has made things even more difficult for the populations, as prices for basic foodstuffs such as rice and vegetables have increased. In Nairobi, the price of corn has nearly doubled.

Most slums inhabitants have migrated to the city from rural areas in the hope of better life conditions. They possess the skills for market gardening but do not have the financial means to get started.

With their market gardening and urban agriculture program, SOLIDARITES INTERNATIONAL is working to improve living conditions for the populations of the Kibera, Kiambu and Mathare slums.

Meanwhile, a traditionally barren area of the North Horr, the Kalacha and Huri hills region, has been stricken with drought for years. Our teams are developing a multi-sector project covering access to drinking water, access to hygiene and sanitation, food security (development of farming and animal breeding),  and forest preservation.

SOLIDARITES INTERNATIONAL has been in Kenya since May 2006. More than ever, we are working to assist populations stricken by crisis and responding to their most urgent needs.

Updated: June 2011