Dr.Edris N.Omondi (Advocate)
We have just completed the first quarter of 2025. Unlike the other years, the level of natural disasters around the world is alarming and the need for global preparedness is inevitable. We have just witnessed one of the most despicable and devastating earthquakes, from the crust of Myanmar-Burma; Cyclone Chido in Mayotte; Historic fires ravaging part of Japan and Los Angels; Snow storms in Canada and civil unrest across the world, not to mention the war in Ukraine and other part of the world.
In Kenya other than the climate change circle of floods and droughts, pockets of terrorism activities, we recently witnessed unexplained tectonic activities along the rift valley of Kenya, with our world pulling apart.
As the world reflects on both man-made and natural made calamities-force majure, Kenya, should not be left out of this equation of equipping effective preparedness for emergency knowledge to its citizens, or rather we should lead from the front in Africa. It is vital that we rethink, strengthen and prioritize our readiness to handle the very mundane of our yearly afflictions like food insecurity, drought, and floods. Where we succeed in such, then we can handle any other unpredictable or unprecedented natural disasters or calamities.
In particular, the question arises: How prepared are we as a nation in the face of untold eventualities? And more importantly, how can we build a sustainable system for emergency survival kits, especially in times of food crises, the most obvious starting point?
This article therefore will examine the state of Kenya’s preparedness in terms of emergency response, food security, and the need for a structured approach to survival kits. As we navigate through Kenya’s challenges, we will explore the possibilities for creating a resilient society that can withstand the unexpected.
Kenya’s Struggles with Food Security: A Growing Crisis
Food security in Kenya has been a long-standing issue that has only worsened over the years. With over 5 million people facing hunger as of recent reports, the country is struggling to meet the basic nutritional needs of its citizens, particularly in rural areas that are most affected by climate change and erratic weather patterns. Prolonged droughts and floods have ravaged agricultural production, causing massive losses in crops, livestock, and infrastructure, leading to severe economic and social distress.
In a country where agriculture is the backbone of the economy, food insecurity is a national emergency. Therefore, ensuring adequate food reserves, access to nutritional resources, and the availability of emergency survival kits is a top priority.
The Need for Emergency Survival Kits
Emergency survival kits are essential tools designed to support individuals, families, and communities during periods of crisis or disaster. In the event of an emergency, such as a natural disaster, drought, or pandemic, these kits serve as a vital lifeline, offering sustenance and basic necessities for survival. The kits can be especially important in regions where access to food, clean water, and medical care is limited.
Kenya has not yet developed a national framework for emergency survival kits. However, recognizing the need for these kits could be a step toward greater self-reliance and resilience in times of crisis. The government, in collaboration with local communities, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and private sector players, can begin developing and deploying these kits as part of a larger disaster preparedness and response strategy.
Components of a Survival Kit: What Should Be Included?
The composition of an emergency survival kit must address the most basic human needs during a crisis. A well-structured survival kit should include:
Food and Water: Non-perishable food items such as rice, maize flour, beans, lentils, canned goods, and dried fruits. These foods have long shelf lives and can sustain individuals for extended periods without spoilage, including clean water.
Medical Supplies: First aid kits that include bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and other essential medications. Vitamins and supplements to address nutritional deficiencies in the event of food shortages.
Shelter and Warmth: Tents or other portable shelters to provide temporary housing in case homes are destroyed or inaccessible. Blankets, sleeping bags, and warm clothing to protect against the elements, particularly during cold seasons or in regions prone to harsh weather.
Hygiene Items: Sanitation kits with soap, disinfectant wipes, sanitary pads, and toilet paper to maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of disease.
Face masks and hand sanitizers for disease prevention, especially in pandemic scenarios.
Communication Tools: Battery-powered radios to stay updated on emergency alerts and broadcasts. Chargers and power banks to ensure mobile phones and other communication devices remain functional.
Cash and Documentation: Cash in small denominations for emergencies when electronic payments may be unavailable.
Kenya’s Emergency Preparedness: Are We Ready?
It a question agency such as the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) working to improve preparedness, response, and recovery strategies, are best placed to educate the masses!
However, to improve emergency preparedness and food security, the government must take a multi-faceted approach by either:
1. Develop a National Framework for Emergency Kits working with NGOs, UNICEF, and other partners to develop and distribute standardized emergency survival kits to communities in high-risk areas.
2. Create Strategic Food Reserves: The National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) should be empowered to play a more active role in managing food stockpiles and ensuring that food is distributed equitably across the country.
3. Invest in Agricultural Resilience with the government encouraging climate-smart agriculture and invest in irrigation systems, which will ensure that communities can continue producing food even in times of drought.
4. Public Awareness and Education: Communities must be educated on how to build personal survival kits, store food, and implement safety measures during emergencies. Regular drills and simulation exercises can help communities better prepare for actual emergencies.
5. Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society organizations is key to ensuring that emergency response efforts are coordinated and effective.
Conclusion: A Call for Action
Kenya’s readiness to handle emergencies—particularly those related to food security and survival—remains a critical area of focus. While there have been strides in disaster preparedness, there is still much work to be done to ensure the nation is truly equipped to handle the unexpected.
By developing emergency survival kits, strengthening food security measures, and implementing proactive disaster management systems, Kenya can build resilience against future crises. The government, in partnership with the private sector and local communities, must prioritize these efforts to ensure that every Kenyan is prepared to face whatever challenges lie ahead.
In a country with a growing population and increasing vulnerability to climate change, now is the time to act and ensure that Kenya’s future is built on a foundation of preparedness, resilience, and hope.
(Dr.Edris Omondi is a Preacher, Social Thinker, Mentor, Writer, Author and a Public Motivational Speaker)
