Religious leaders and Muslim faithful have called for emergency aid to communities in drought-affected areas as Ramadan begins. The holy month, expected to start on February 18 or 19, coincides with severe drought in counties including Lamu and Mandera. They warn that the drought could endanger health and religious observances.
Religious leaders and Muslim faithful have urged that communities in areas like Basuba village in Boni Forest receive emergency aid during Ramadan. The sacred month begins amid severe drought in counties such as Mandera, Turkana, Wajir, Garissa, Marsabit, Isiolo, Kajiado, Kilifi, Kwale, Tana River, and Lamu.
Mohamed Abdulkadir, chair of the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM) Lamu branch, stated that water scarcity during fasting can lead to dizziness and fainting, especially combined with extreme heat. "Instead of focusing on fasting and congregational prayers, believers must prioritize survival due to the lack of water needed for ablution in mosques," Abdulkadir said. He added that this forces people to travel far for water, missing sermons and prayers.
Another religious leader, Mahmoud Ahmed, highlighted the risks of fasting without water in drought conditions. "Ramadan is when we Muslims fast. No eating or drinking water for at least 14 hours... Lack of clean water or basic needs makes fasting dangerous, increasing risks of dizziness, kidney problems, and malnutrition," Ahmed explained.
Maryam Abatika from Basuba described the severe shortage of food and water in their area. "We have no water or food to cook for iftar or suhoor. What will we do in this situation?" she said. She called on county and national governments to act quickly in distributing aid.
Nevertheless, some leaders noted that drought during Ramadan could serve as a test of patience and faith, strengthening prayers and community bonds. Islamic teachings allow those at risk to break the fast and make compensation later.
