Kakuma Refugee Camp Holistic Support

Over the last few months, IsraAID has broken ground on two new boreholes in Kenya as the Horn of Africa experiences the worst drought in over 40 years. The boreholes, which draw up subterranean water, will provide clean water to thousands of people living outside the Kakuma Refugee Camp in Turkana West. The drilling was the culmination of a year’s work, including intensive hydrological surveys in partnership with Geophysicists Without Borders, to find new locations where groundwater may be accessed.

As part of IsraAID’s drought response, we are also rehabilitating damaged boreholes in the region, bringing water to many more. IsraAID works closely with all local water authorities, and is training community water committees in the operation and maintenance of new boreholes.

As the Horn of Africa experiences its fifth consecutive failed rainy season, many families are living on as little as seven liters of water a week. This is far below the 15 liters per person per day recommended by the UN for emergency situations. The drought is putting communities at dire risk of malnutrition and starvation. Rates of waterborne illness have spiked as people turn to unsafe or contaminated water sources. Children are often kept out of school to search for water, and women and girls face a higher risk of gender-based violence as they travel long distances to find water.

IsraAID Kenya’s Country Director said: “IsraAID has been working in Kenya since 2013, and this project is part of our long-term commitment to building resilience among both the local and refugee communities in Kakuma. We’ve seen the devastating impact of this drought, the worst in over 40 years, and how it has impacted every area of life here. We look forward to helping ensure that families have access to clean, safe water.”

Links:

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9scdfA5mPq8