embu county (mbeere) 2020 short rains food and …
TRANSCRIPT
I
EMBU COUNTY (MBEERE)
2020 SHORT RAINS FOOD AND NUTRITION SECURITY ASSESSMENT REPORT
A Joint Report by the Kenya Food Security Steering Group (KFSSG)1 and
Embu (Mbeere) County Steering Group (CSG)
February 2021
1 Joseph Kamau Swala (Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries) and Hellen Avisa (State Department of
Education)
II
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The short rains food and nutritional security assessment is a bi-annual assessment conducted by
multi-agency and multi-sector representatives from the Kenya Food Security Steering Group
(KFSSG); the County Steering Group (CSG) drawn from agriculture, livestock, water, health and
nutrition as well as education as key sectors and various non-state actors. The assessment was
aimed at achieving an objective, evidence-based, transparent food and nutritional security
situational analysis in Mbeere sub-counties following the performance of short rains season in
2020 and taking into account the cumulative effects of previous seasons, to provide
recommendations for possible response options based on the situation analysis. The assessment
covered the two main livelihood zones. The main food security threats were below average short
rains performance, high food prices, livestock diseases and COVID 19 pandemic safety measures
and restrictions. The performance of short rains was below average with the region receiving 51-
90 percent of the normal which were 43 percent of the average rainfall of 256.05 mm by uneven
distribution in space and poor distribution in time. Production of maize, beans and green grams is
expected to decline by 28, 47 and 42 percent respectively compared to the long term averages. The
production of tomatoes and watermelons under irrigation increased by 25 and 50 percent
respectively compared to the long term averages. Maize stocks held by farmers were 19 percent
below the long term average. Stocks of maize held by traders were 27 percent below the long term
average as traders disposed of their previous old stock. Milk production was near normal across
all livelihood zones. In the Mixed Farming and Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zones,
consumption of milk was one and 2.5 litres respectively. All markets functioned normally without
any disruptions. The average maize prices in January 2021 was Ksh. 35 per kilogram, which was
stable compared to the long term average of Ksh.36for the same period. The average price of a
goat was Ksh. 5,545 for a medium-size goat. The terms of trade was 158 kilograms of maize from
the sale of a medium-size goat compared to the long term average of 127 kilograms. The distance
for domestic water in Mixed Farming livelihood ranged between 1-3 kilometers, which was within
the normal of 0.5-3 kilometers. While in Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone, the distance to
domestic water ranged between 2-8 kilometers compared to the normal of less than five kilometers.
In the Mixed Farming livelihood zone, the cost of water was Ksh. 2-5 per 20-litre Jerrycan, which
was normal for the time of the year while in the Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone, the cost
of water was Ksh. 5-10 per 20-litre Jerrycan, which was also normal for the time of the year. Water
consumption in the Mixed Farming and Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zones declined by 17
and 33 percent respectively compared to the normal. In the Mixed Farming livelihood zone,
consumption of water declined from 60 litres per person per day to 50 litres per person per day. In
the Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone, water consumption declined from 30 litres per
person per day to 20 litres per person per day. The proportions of households with borderline and
acceptable food consumption score was 20 and 80 percent respectively. In the Mixed Farming
livelihood zone, households with acceptable food consumption remained above 90 percent in the
January 2021 and same period in 2020. The proportion of households in the Marginal Mixed
Farming livelihood zone with borderline food consumption score in January 2020 slightly
increased from 35 percent to 37 percent in same period in 2021. In January 2021, the coping
strategy index in the mixed farming and Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zones was 1.8 and
5.7 respectively. The proportion of children under-fives with Mid Upper Arm Circumference with
colour categories measurement was normal (green) across the livelihood zones. The crude
mortality and mortality are below the normal threshold. Mbeere Sub Counties was classified as
‘Stressed’ (IPC Phase ).
III
Table of Contents
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .................................................................................................................................. ii
1.0 INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 County Background ............................................................................................................................. 1
1.2 Methodology and Approach ............................................................................................................... 1
2.0 DRIVERS OF FOOD AND NUTRITION SECURITY IN THE COUNTY ............................................................ 2
2.1 Rainfall Performance ........................................................................................................................... 2
2.2 COVID 19 Pandemic ............................................................................................................................ 2
2.3 Other Shocks and Hazards .................................................................................................................. 3
3.0 IMPACTS OF DRIVERS ON FOOD AND NUTRITION SECURITY ................................................................. 3
3.1 Availability ........................................................................................................................................... 3
3.1.1 Crop Production ........................................................................................................................... 3
3.1.2 Cereals Stocks .............................................................................................................................. 4
3.1.3 Livestock Production .................................................................................................................... 5
3.1.4 Impact on availability ................................................................................................................... 7
3.2 Access .................................................................................................................................................. 7
3.2.1 Markets ........................................................................................................................................ 8
3.2.2 Terms of Trade (ToT) .................................................................................................................... 9
3.2.3 Income Sources ............................................................................................................................ 9
3.2.4 Water Access and Availability .................................................................................................... 10
3.2.5 Food Consumption ..................................................................................................................... 13
3.2.6 Coping Strategy .......................................................................................................................... 13
3.3 Utilization .......................................................................................................................................... 13
3.3.1 Morbidity and Mortality Patterns .............................................................................................. 14
3.3.2 Immunization and Vitamin A Supplementation......................................................................... 15
3.3.3 Nutritional Status and Dietary Diversity .................................................................................... 15
3.3.4 Health and Nutrition Sector in COVID -19 Pandemic ................................................................. 16
3.3.5 Public Interventions, Risk Communication and Community Level Actions ............................... 17
3.3.6 Coordination and Leadership in COVID-19 Pandemic Preparedness and Response ................. 17
3.4 Trends of Key Food Security Indicators ............................................................................................ 18
3.5 Education .......................................................................................................................................... 19
3.5.1 Enrolment .................................................................................................................................. 19
IV
3.5.2 Effects of COVID-19 Pandemic on Schools ................................................................................. 19
3.5.3 Effects of Short Rains on Schools ............................................................................................... 20
3.5.4 School Feeding ........................................................................................................................... 21
4.0 FOOD SECURITY PROGNOSIS ................................................................................................................ 22
4.1 Prognosis Assumptions ..................................................................................................................... 22
4.2 Food Security Outlook....................................................................................................................... 22
4.2.1 Food Security Outlook (February – April 2021) ......................................................................... 22
4.2.2 Food Security Outlook (May - July) ............................................................................................ 22
5.0 CONCLUSION AND INTERVENTIONS ..................................................................................................... 23
5.1 Conclusion ......................................................................................................................................... 23
5.1.1 Phase Classification .................................................................................................................... 23
5.1.2 Summary of Findings .................................................................................................................. 23
5.1.3 Sub-County Ranking ................................................................................................................... 23
5.2 Ongoing Interventions ...................................................................................................................... 23
5.2.1 Food Interventions ..................................................................................................................... 23
5.2.2 Non-Food Interventions ............................................................................................................. 24
5.3 Recommended Interventions ........................................................................................................... 26
5.3.1 Food Interventions ..................................................................................................................... 26
5.3.2 Non-Food Interventions ............................................................................................................. 26
1
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 County Background
Embu County is located to the north-east of Nairobi, southeastern side of Mount Kenya covering
an area of 2,818 km2. It borders Kirinyaga
County to the west, Kitui County to the east,
Machakos County to the south, Murang’a County
to the south-west, Tharaka Nithi County to the
north and Meru to the north-west. The county is
divided into four constituencies, namely;
Runyenjes, Manyatta, Mbeere South and Mbeere
North. The county has a population of 608,599
persons (Kenya National Bureau of Statistics,
2019 Population Census). The food and
nutritional security assessment was carried out in
Mbeere region. Mbeere region has two sub-
counties namely: Mbeere North and Mbeere
South both covering 2,095.7 km2 with a
population of 272,351 persons (KNBS 2019 Population Census). The sub-counties have two main
livelihood zones namely: Mixed Farming and Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zones with
population proportions of 49 and 51 percent respectively (Figure 1). The main sources of cash
income in the Mixed Farming livelihood zone are cash crop production contributing 30 percent of
cash income; food crop production at 20 percent; livestock production at 18 percent and formal
waged labour at 10 percent. In the Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone, food crop production
is the major source of income accounting for 40 percent followed by livestock production at 23
percent and finally cash crop production at 10 percent.
1.2 Methodology and Approach
The main aim of the short rains food security assessment was to conduct an objective, evidence-
based and transparent food and nutrition security situation analysis taking into account the
performance of short rains in 2020, as well as taking cumulative effect of previous seasons and to
provide recommendations for possible response options. The assessment adopted a multi-sectoral
and multi-agency approach with representatives from KFSSG, CSG and other non-state actors in
the county. The assessment in the county was conducted from 25th to 29th February 2021. The
assessment began with the initial CSG briefing of the objectives of the assessment together with
sector presentations and later a review of the sector checklists. Field teams were constituted with
the aim of fact-finding mission or confirming the data in selected sample areas across all livelihood
zones. The data were triangulated with the information provided in the checklists with the actual
situation in the field. The exercise involved an in-depth analysis of primary data collected through
key informant interviews, community focus group discussions, market surveys while secondary
data was collected through the sectoral checklists. In the transect drives, visual inspection
techniques and observations were employed in the collection of information. During the field
exercise, teams adhered to COVID-19 containment protocols and standards. Secondary
information was analyzed from the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) monthly
drought early warning bulletins and also from SMART Surveys. Data analysis was carried out at
the sub-county and livelihood zone levels and sectoral county reports prepared. The team later
compiled and drafted the county report whose preliminary findings were presented to the CSG on
49%51%
Mixed Farming(MF) Marginal Mixed Farming
Figure 1: County population by livelihood zones
2
29th January 2021 for adoption and ownership. Further analysis was done using the Integrated
Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) reference tools.
2.0 DRIVERS OF FOOD AND NUTRITION SECURITY IN THE COUNTY
2.1 Rainfall Performance
The onset of the short rains season was timely in the third dekad of October for the Mixed Farming
zones and fourth week for the Marginal
Mixed Farming zones. In the upper part of
Mbeere South and parts of the North
received 76-90 percent of the normal rainfall
according to the Rainfall Estimate. In the
lower region of Mbeere South and North,
the sub-counties received 51-71 percent of
the normal rainfall (Figure 2). The county
received 146. 55 mm of rains, that was 43
percent of the normal rainfall of 256.05 mm.
The rains were uneven in space and
characterized by poor distribution in time
across the livelihood zones. Rainfall
cessation was timely but in some parts, there
was an early cessation in the second dekad
of December compared to the normal of
cessation at the third dekad of December.
2.2 COVID 19 Pandemic
Despite the gradual and partial easing of COVID 19 restrictions, poor households continue to face
income deficits and constrained access to food due to decreased labor demand and income
opportunities coupled with higher than normal food prices of some key staples... Stocks at the
household level were dwindling as more households increasingly depend on market supplies.
There has been a shortage of nutrition commodities required in the management of both severe
acute malnutrition and moderate acute malnutrition due to importation restrictions occasioned by
the COVID-19 pandemic. Poor healthcare-seeking behaviour due to COVID-19 stigma affected
the uptake of services, especially in public health facilities. Reduced community health services
were reported due to COVID-19. The pandemic affected nutritional screening coverage as fewer
cases were screened due to lack of growth monitoring services for children less than five years in
most health facilities due to the stigma caused by COVID-19 pandemic among both the caregivers
and health workers coupled by inadequate personal protective equipment (PPEs). However,
communities continue to adhere to social distancing, hand washing and use of facemasks. The
Ministry of Health continues to provide restrictions and safety measure towards controlling the
spread of COVID-19 pandemic. The impact of the pandemic amidst other shocks will likely cause
significant deterioration and erosion of livelihoods and productive assets, food security and
nutrition of populations.
Figure 2: Rainfall Performance
3
2.3 Other Shocks and Hazards
Foot and Mouth Disease was reported in Kabaci, Kune and Kui. Contagious Caprine
Pleuropneumonia (CCPP) and Newcastle Disease (NCD) was also reported across the livelihood
zones.
3.0 IMPACTS OF DRIVERS ON FOOD AND NUTRITION SECURITY
3.1 Availability
Maize stocks held by farmers were below the long term average because harvesting has not
commenced. Maize stocks held by traders were below the long term average as traders disposed
of their previous old stock. Pasture conditions were fair to poor across the livelihood zones while
browse condition was fair to good.
3.1.1 Crop Production
In the Mbeere sub-counties, the main crops grown were maize, beans and green grams. Maize and
beans were majorly planted in the Mixed Farming livelihood zone while in the Marginal Mixed
Farming livelihood zone; cowpeas, maize and green grams were largely grown. In Marginal Mixed
Farming livelihood zone, maize contributes 50 percent to food and 10 percent to cash income while
it contributes 38 percent to food and 25 percent to cash income in the Mixed Farming livelihood
zone (Table 1).
Table 1: Proportion of Income and Food Livelihood zone Crop Percentage contribution
% to food % to Cash
Mixed Farming Maize 38 25
Beans 23 15
Marginal Mixed Farming Maize 50 10
Beans 17 6
Green grams 10 30
Rain Fed Crop Production
The area under maize, beans and green grams decreased by 24, 16 and 18 percent respectively
compared to the long term average. Production of maize, beans and green grams declined by 28,
47 and 42 percent respectively compared to the long term averages (Table 2). The decline was
attributed to below average short rains forecasted that lead to farmers abandoning expansion of
their land sizes, poor distribution in space and time of short rains, increase acreage on Muguka
crop in Mbeere North sub-county due to financial attachment to the crop. COVID-19 pandemic
restrictions resulted in increased prices in farm inputs such as fertilizers and certified seeds. Lack
of income through loss of job opportunities resulted in limited access to farm inputs due to declined
purchasing power.
Table 2: Rain Fed Crop Production
Crop Area planted
during 2020
short rains
season (Ha)
Long term average
(5 year) area
planted during the
short rains season
(Ha)
2020 Short rains
season
production
(90 kg bags)
Projected
Long term average (5
year) production
during the short rains
season (90 kg bags)
4
1. Maize 8,700 11,380 93,620 130,500
2. Beans 5,200 6,200 23,500 44,500
3.Green grams 7,250 8,800 28,750 49,750
Irrigated Crop Production
Tomatoes, watermelons and kales are the main crops grown under irrigation in Muringari (Kathiga
Gaceru), Ishiara, Riandu, Mbeti South, Makima, Mwea, Mavuria and Kiambere in Mbeere South
along Thiba River and Tana River. The area under tomatoes and watermelons increased by 23 and
20 percent respectively compared to the long term averages (Table 3). The area under kales
remained stable compared to the long term averages, however, production of kales was 20 percent
below the long term average. The production of tomatoes and watermelons increased by 25 and
50 percent respectively compared to the long term averages. The above average production of
tomatoes and watermelons was associated with below average rainfall performance that limited
swelling of rivers in Mbeere South thereby allowing irrigation. In the Marginal Mixed Farming
livelihood zone in Evurore in Mbeere North, farmers adopted irrigation due to available water.
Horticultural irrigated farming was embraced in the Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone of
Shiara, Ndurumori and Muringari locations of Evurore ward due to regular supply of piped water
from the community irrigation schemes.
Table 3: Irrigated Crop Production
Crop Area planted
during the
2020 short
rains season
(Ha)
Long term average (3
years)
area planted during
short rains season (Ha)
2020 short rains
season production
(MT) Projected
Long term average
(3 years) production
during the short
rains season (MT)
1. Tomatoes 190 155 1,080 865
2. Watermelons 180 150 3,600 2,400
3. Kales 65 65 82 103
3.1.2 Cereals Stocks
Maize stocks held by farmers were 19 percent below the long term average since the harvesting of
maize has not commenced (Table 4). The farmers' stocks in Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood
zone were below the long term average due to reduced crop production due to below average
rainfall performance. Stocks of maize held by traders were 27 percent below the long term average
as traders disposed of their old stocks. Household stocks reduced significantly in the pasts six
months as a result of high consumption of staple food commodities at home. However, some
farmers sold their stocks to get income for other non-food items. The available maize stocks at
household level would last less than a month, however, the maize stocks at the household level
projected last for about 3–4 months once harvesting commences.
Table 4: Cereal Stocks in the County Cereal/
Stocks
Held
Maize Beans Sorghum Green gram TOTAL
Current LTA Current LTA Current LTA Current LTA Current LTA
Farmers 15,060 18,500 10,250 12,250 500 750 26,750 29,000 52,560 60,500
Traders 5,500 7,500 3,800 6,000 1,700 2,100 8,000 11,000 19,000 26,600
5
3.1.3 Livestock Production
The main livestock reared in Mbeere region are goats, sheep, cattle and local poultry. In the Mixed
Farming and Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zones, livestock production (including
beekeeping) contributed 20 and 45 percent of income respectively. In the Mixed Farming
livelihood zone, cattle contributed 40 and 35 percent to cash and food respectively while in the
Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone, goats contributed 40 and 15 percent to cash income and
food respectively.
Pasture and Browse Condition
In the Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone, forage condition was fair to poor compared to
good at this time of the year. In the Mixed Farming livelihood zone, pasture condition was good
to fair compared to good at this time of the year (Table 5). The browse in the Mixed Farming
livelihood zone was good which was normal at this time of the year. Some rains received in
December rejuvenated forage resources. In Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone, pasture and
browse are expected to last between 1-1.5 months. In the Mixed Farming livelihood zones, pastures
and browse are expected to last for 1.5-2 months compared to three months normally. There is a
looming second wave of invasion by Desert Locusts that may lead to destruction of forage
resources. Bean straws were being used as feed in Mixed Farming livelihood zone. In
Mugwanjogu, Karerema, Kamarandi in Evurore Ward, Kyenire, Kigwambiti, Kauraciri in
Muminji Ward, Kamwiyendie, Nthingini, Wango, Koma in Mwea, Muthiru, Ndune, Mbondoni in
Makima Ward, Karura in Kiambere Ward, Machanga in Mavuria Ward and Maviani in Makima
Ward, forage conditions were poor. Crop residues are expected to supplement pastures in the next
one month which was normal for this period.
Table 5: Pasture and Browse Condition
Livelihoo
d zone
Pasture Browse
Condition How long to Last Factors
Limitin
g
Access
Condition How long to Last Factors
Limitin
g
Access
Curre
nt
Norm
al
Curre
nt
Norm
al
Curre
nt
Norm
al
Curre
nt
Norm
al
Marginal
mixed
farming
Fair-
poor
Good 0.5 1.5 None Fair Good 1.5 2 None
Mixed
farming
Good-
Fair
Good 1.5 3 None Good Good 2 3 None
There are 1,005 hay stores holding 12,380 bales held by farmers, however bailing of hay was done
at individual level with the majority of farmers having hay barns that can store 500 bales (Table
6). About 90 percent of the hay stores are owned by individual farmers. In Nthawa ward, farmers
used grain store to conserve their hay as well as haystacks across the livelihood zones. NDMA
supported the construction of hay barns in Kiambere ward in Mbeere South which can store up to
100 hays bales each. Conserved hay was normally used as feed supplement as pasture deteriorates.
6
Table 6: Hay Stores in the County Sub-
county
No. of
Hay
Stores
Storage
Capacity
(Total no.
of bales)
No. of
Bales
currently
being held
Average
Weight per
bale (in
Kgs)
Average
price per
bale (Ksh.)
Comments – E.g. percentage
held by farmers and other
Institutions
Mbeere
North
5 50,400 380 12 220 All the hay is held by farmers in
their individual and group stores
as well as haystacks
Mbeere
South
1,000 500 12000 15 200 90% by individual farmers, 10%
other institutions
Total 1,005
Livestock Productivity
Livestock Body Condition
The body condition for cattle was good to fair in the Mixed Farming livelihood zones compared
to good at this time of the year while in Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone, livestock body
condition was fair for cattle which was normal for the time of the year (Table 7). The livestock
body condition for sheep in both livelihood zones was fair compared to good normally at this time
of the year. The body condition for goats was good across the livelihood zones which was normal
at this time. The body condition of cattle is expected to deteriorate with declining forage resources
and increased distances to water sources. Goats are expected to maintain good body condition.
Table 7: Livestock Body Condition
Livelihood
zone
Cattle Sheep Goat
Current Normal Current Normal Current Normal
Marginal
Mixed
Farming
Fair Fair Fair Good Good Good
Mixed
Farming
Good to fair Good Fair Good Good Good
Tropical Livestock Units (TLUs) and Birth Rates
The tropical livestock units remained stable across the livelihood zones compared to the long term
average (Table 8). There has been a 10 percent reduction in the number of households keeping
livestock, mainly due to increased acreage of miraa farming. Births are normal across all livestock
types in the county but with a marginal increase in kidding and lambing for goats and sheep
respectively.
Table 8: Tropical Livestock Units Livelihood zone Poor Income Households Medium Income Households
Current Normal Current Normal
Marginal mixed farming 1.25 1.5 4 4
Mixed farming 1 1 2 2
Milk Production and Consumption
In Marginal Mixed Farming and Mixed Farming livelihood zone, production of milk was stable
compared to the long term average. There were minimal variations in consumption of milk at the
household level across the livelihood zones. In Marginal Mixed Farming and Mixed Farming
7
livelihood zone, the cost of milk ranged between Ksh. 50-60 per litre which was normal at this
time of the year (Table 9).
Table 9: Milk Production, Consumption and Cost Livelihood zone
Milk Production
Litres)/Household
Milk consumption (Litres)/
Household
Prices (Ksh)/Litre
Current LTA Current LTA Current LTA
Marginal Mixed
Farming
4.5 5 2.5 3 50 50
Mixed Farming 1.0 1.5 1 1 60 60
Livestock Migration, Diseases and Mortalities
There were no livestock migrations into or out of the county at this time of the year. Foot and
Mouth Disease (FMD) was reported in the Mixed Farming livelihood zone of Nthawa ward
(Kabaci, Kune, and Kui) in Mbeere North where 20 cases were confirmed. Farmers, in response
to the FMD cases, organized for the vaccination of their livestock. Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD)
was also reported in the Mixed Farming livelihood zone of Mwea ward in Mbeere South.
Contagious Caprine Pleuropneumonia (CCPP) and Newcastle Disease (NCD) remained endemic
to goat and poultry respectively. Livestock mortalities were normal across the livestock types.
Water for Livestock
The main sources of water for livestock in both livelihood zones were boreholes, piped schemes,
irrigation water, rivers and shallow wells. In the Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone, the
returned distance to water sources for livestock ranged between 5-6 kilometers compared to the
normal of 3-10 kilometers (Table 10). However, increased return distances are expected in the
Marginal Mixed Farming areas in Mugwanjogu, Karerema, Kamarandi in Evurore Ward, Kyenire,
Kigwambiti, Kauraciri in Muminji Ward, Kamwiyendie, Nthingini, Wango, Koma in Mwea,
Muthiru, Ndune, Mbondoni in Makima Ward, Karura in Kiambere Ward, Machanga in Mavuria
Ward and Maviani in Makima Ward, all within Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone, where
livestock trekked for more than 10 kilometers in search of water. In the Mixed Farming livelihood
zone, the distance was stable and less than two kilometers. Currently, livestock are watered daily
across the livelihood zones. Watering frequencies are expected to decrease with increasing
distances and declining water points.
Table 10: Livestock Return Distance Livelihood zone Return distances (km) Expected duration to last (months)
Current Normal Current Normal
Marginal Mixed Farming 4-10 3-10 1-2 2-4
Mixed Farming 1-2 0.5-2 2-3 3-4
3.1.4 Impact on availability
The performance of short rains resulted to average food availability. Harvests are likely to increase
once harvesting is done which will result to improve household stocks. Livestock productivity has
been near normal providing household with food and incomes.
3.2 Access
The traded volumes in the market were low across the major markets. The terms of trade were
above the long term average and 2019, however, the terms of trade is expected to remain
8
persistently above the long term average due to declining maize prices which is expected to decline
further when harvesting starts. Water consumption in the mixed farming and Marginal Mixed
Farming livelihood zones declined by compared to the normal. Food consumption score improved
across the livelihood zones compared with a similar period. However, coping strategies improved
implying that households did not use more severe consumption-based coping strategies.
3.2.1 Markets
Market Operations
The main markets in the two sub-counties are Makutano, Siakago, Kiritiri, Ngiiri, Makima, Ishiara
and Mutuobare. The markets were functioning normally without disruptions across the two
livelihood zones. The markets were well provisioned with food commodities and livestock from
within the county and as well as from outside the county. Food commodities available in the market
were cereals, pulses, vegetables, bananas, tomatoes, potatoes among others. The food commodities
were supplied from within the county. The main livestock types in the market were cattle, sheep,
goats and poultry. Livestock in the market came from Kitui, Mwingi, Garissa and Tharaka-Nithi
counties and from within the county. The traded volumes for both crop and livestock were near
normal across the markets though the prices remained high as households relied on supplies from
the markets.
Market Prices
Maize Prices
The average maize prices in
the county in January 2021,
was Ksh. 35 per kilogram
which was stable compared to
long term average Ksh.36 in
the same period (Figure 3).
The maize prices was 20
percent below compared to
Ksh. 44 per kilogram in same
period in 2020. The stability
in maize prices was attributed
with available maize stocks
especially in Mixed Farming
livelihood zone as well as on
going harvesting. Maize
prices are expected to remain
below the long term averages
as harvesting commences. In Karaba market, maize prices were the highest at Ksh.37 per kilogram
while in Ishiara market, maize prices was lowest at Ksh.33 per kilogram.
Goat Prices
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Pri
ce (
Ksh
. /
kg)
Average (2016-2020) 2019 2020 2021
Figure 3: Maize Prices
9
In January 2021, the average
price of a goat was Ksh.
5,545 for a medium sized
goat compared to the long
term averages of Ksh.4,595
(Figure 4). The price of goat
was 21 percent above
compared to the long term
averages. The prices was
stable compared to 2020
prices. The above goat
prices was attributed to good
body condition across the
livelihood zones. The prices
is expected to remain
consistently above the long
term averages. As at January
2021, highest goat prices were reported in Mbeere South at Ksh. 5,000 compared to Ksh.4,500 in
Mbeere North.
3.2.2 Terms of Trade (ToT)
In January 2021, the
terms of trade were 158
kilograms of maize as
result of sale of a goat
compared to the long
term average of 127
kilograms (Figure 5).
The terms of trade in
the same period was 25
and 29 percent above
the long term average
and 2020. The terms of
trade were associated
with increased goat
prices and declining
maize prices. The term
of trade are expected to
remain persistently
above the long term average due to declining maize prices which is expected to decline further
when harvesting starts
3.2.3 Income Sources
The main sources of income in the county are mainly food crop production, cash crop production
and livestock production. The sources of income and their contributions to household income by
livelihood zones are provided in Table 11.
0
1000
2000
3000
4000
5000
6000
7000
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Pri
ce (
Ksh
.)
Average (2016-2020) 2019 2020 2021
Figure 4: Goat Prices
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
180
200
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Kilo
gra
ms
of
maiz
e
exch
an
ged
fo
r a g
oat
Average (2016-2020) 2019 2020 2021
Figure 5: Terms of Trade
10
Table 11: Proportion of Contribution to Cash Income by Livelihood Sources of Income Proportion of contribution to cash income by livelihood
Mixed Farming Marginal Mixed Farming
Livestock Production 18 23
Food Crop Production 20 40
Cash Crop Production 30 10
Formal Waged Labour 10 5
Small Business 5 5
Petty Trading 5 3
Casual Waged Labour 3 4
3.2.4 Water Access and Availability
Major Water Sources
The major water sources for domestic use are rivers, boreholes, shallow wells and water pans.
According to the NDMA, Monthly Bulletins, rivers, boreholes and traditional rivers were 64.7,
11.8 and 17.6 percent respectively sources used for domestic (Figure 6). Rivers were the major
sources of water for domestic use, however some rivers had dried up. There was an increased
proportion over the reliance to
rivers from 53.3 to 64.7 percent.
While boreholes reliance increased
to 11.8 percent from 6.7 percent in
the previous month. The
proportion of households using
traditional river wells water
reduced from 20 percent to 17.6
percent. The average water
recharge was 60-70 percent in open
water sources. In Kiambere ward
in Mbeere South, lower Evurore
and Muminji wards in Mbeere
North, recharge was less than 50
percent due to poor and uneven distribution of short rains. The current water sources are normal at
this time of the year; however, the sources declined by 25 percent of normal sources due to non-
operational (Table 12). Rivers are flowing normally occasioned by the off-season rains being
recorded in the upper areas of Embu County while earth dams are 40-60 percent full and projected
to last between 2 to 3 months in both livelihoods. The water sources were non-operational due to
design deficits for boreholes and silting of dams/pans thereby lowering the capacity. Earth dams
such as Mugwanjogu, Gwakigumba and Kirigara were destroyed during the 2020 long rains, they
are currently with water after rehabilitation. In Ciarugaga dam in Mbeti south ward, Wango dam
in Mwea ward, Makima dam, Nguguni in Kiambere ward remain dry due to high silt loads.
Table 12: Current Operational Sources of Water
Ward/
Livelihoo
d zone
Water
Source
(Three (3)
major
sources)
No. of
Normal
Operation
al
No. of
Current
Operation
al Sources
Projected
Duration in
months
(Operation
al Sources)
Normal
Duratio
n that
water
lasts in
months
% of full
Capacity
Recharge
d by the
Rains
Locality of
Non-
operational
Water
Sources
5.9%11.8%
17.6%
64.7%
Pans and dams Boreholes Traditional rivers Rivers
Figure 6: Sources of Water
11
Mixed
Farming
1.Rivers 5 5 12 12 60
2.Boreholes 13 8 6 8 70 Gachuriri
Gachoka,
Gikuyari,
Ikondigo,
Nganduri.
3.Dams/pan
s
12 10 4 6 80 Ciarugaga,
Muchonoke.
Marginal
Mixed
Farming
1.Rivers 4 4 6 12 60
2.Boreholes
37 27 3 6 60 Ngunguni,
Ciorindagwa,
Mutuobare,
Matharau,
Itira,Nthigini,
Kirie,Mbarwar
i
Gitaraka,Gate
gi
3.Dams/
Pans
26 19 3 4 60 Wango,
Makima,
Ikang’o,
Nguguni,
Kirie, Gitie,
Mugwanjogu.
The concentration of households was reported for particular water sources in both livelihood
zones. The concentration at water points was as a result of design deficits the breakdown of
boreholes and drying up of water sources (Table 13).
Table 13: Concentration in water sources
Most Concentrated Water Points
Ward/
Livelihood
zone
Actual Name of the Water
Point
Normal
No. Served
Current
No. Being
Served
Reason(s) for Variation
Kiambeere in
Mbeere South
(Marginal
Mixed
Farming)
1-Boreholes in Kariguri,
Gacabari,
Kiambeere new site,
Kabingori ,
Ntharawe/Ngambari
1000HH
1500HH
Technical breakdowns of the
following strategic boreholes
Mutuobare, Gwakarigu, Karura and
drying up of other water sources
2.Dams- Kwanguma,
Gwakigumba, Kirigara,
Mariari
800HH 1000HH Drying up of other water sources.
Makima
(Marginal
Mixed
Farming)
1-Boreholes Mbondoni,
Gatuanyaga, Kikulani,
Kwanzibo, Kwa Kitema and
Kathiani.
1200HH 1500HH Technical breakdowns of the
strategic boreholes and drying up of
other water sources
2. Dams/pans-Matilamu,
Makima, Mbondoni.
800HH 1000HH Sharing of water sources by
households and livestock
Mwea
(Marginal
Mixed
Farming)
1. Boreholes- Makutano,
Kamweli, Nganga,
Kithunguthia and Wango
1000HH 1200HH Technical breakdowns of the
following strategic boreholes,
Gitaraka, Gategi, Kilia.
2.Dams-Wango, Karunguru,
Kawango, Gitaraka
800HH 1000HH Sharing of dams by households and
livestock
12
Mbeti
South Ward
(Mixed
Farming)
1.Boreholes-
Kaninawanthiga, Gachoka
400HH 600HH Technical breakdowns of the
following strategic boreholes,
Gachuriri, Nganduri, Kiamuringa.
2Water kiosks 80HH 100HH Drying up of other water sources
Mavuria ward
(Marginal
Mixed
Farming)
1.Water kiosks 100HH 150HH Drying up of other water sources
2. Boreholes: Iriamurai,
Gataka, Kabingori, Kabuguri
and Kwanduanyaga
800HH 1000HH Technical breakdowns of the
following strategic boreholes,
Nguguni, Kavondori, Karii and
Ikango.
Mixed
Farming
Nthawa,
Kanyuambora
which is part
of Evurori
Ward
1-Boreholes –Mathai, Thura,
Muchonoke and Ciakaragu
500HH 400HH Availability of water from nearer
alternative sources
2.Dams- Kune,
Kwanduambogo
300HH 300HH
Marginal
Mixed
Farming
Evurori,
Muminji
1-Borehole: Kiamugongo,
Cieria
200HH 200HH
3.Dams-Mugwanjogu,
Karambari, Muthanthara
300HH 300HH [TL1]
Distance to Water Sources
The distance to water sources in the Mixed Farming livelihood zone ranged between 1-3
kilometers, which was within the normal range of 0.5-3 kilometers at this time of the year. On the
other hand, in the Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone, the distance ranged between 2-8
kilometers compared to the normal of less than five kilometers at this time of the year (Table 14).
The distances increased due to drying of some earth dams (such as Kwanguma, Gwakigumba,
Kirigara and Mariari), reduced discharge and mechanical breakdown of strategic boreholes. In
Lower Evurore, Muminji, Kiambeere, and Lower Mavuria households trekked an average of 20
kilometers.
Cost of Water
The cost of water in both livelihood zones remained the same across the livelihood zones. In the
Mixed Farming livelihood zone, the cost of water was Ksh. 2-5 per 20-litre Jerrycan, which was
normal at this time of the year (Table 14) while in the Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone,
the cost of water was Ksh.5-10 per 20-litre Jerrycan, which was also normal at this time of the
year.
Table 14: Water Access and Utilization
Livelihood zone
Return Distance to
Water for Domestic
Use (Km)
Cost of Water at
Source (Ksh. Per
20litres)
Waiting Time at
Water Source
(Minutes)
Average Water
Consumption
(Litres/person/day)
Current Normal Current Normal Current Normal Current Normal
Mixed Farming 1-3 0.5-3 2-5 2-5 5-10 0-10 50 60
Marginal Mixed
Farming
2-8 0.5-5 5-10 5-10 10-20 5-20 20 30
Waiting time at the Water Source
13
The waiting time in Mixed Farming livelihood zone ranged between 5-10 minutes compared to
normal of less than 10 minutes. While in Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone, the waiting
time at the source was 10-20 minutes compared to the normal 5-20 minutes which was attributed
by congestion of people and livestock at the source as well as reduced yield of boreholes (Table
14).
Water Consumption
Water consumption in the Mixed Farming and Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zones declined
by 17 percent and 33 percent respectively compared to the normal. In the Mixed Farming
livelihood zone, consumption of water declined from 60 litres per person per day to 50 litres per
person per day. In the Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone, water consumption declined from
30 litres per person per day to 20 litres per person per day (Table 14). The reduction in water
consumption was as due to poor access to water for household consumption as a result of the
increased distance to water sources, increased prices as well as the decrease in water levels.
3.2.5 Food Consumption
In January 2021, the proportions of households with borderline and acceptable food consumption
score was 20 and 80
percent respectively
compared to 15 and
69 percent
respectively in same
period in 2020. In the
Mixed Farming
livelihood zone,
households with
acceptable food
consumption
remained above 90
percent in the January
2021 and same period
in 2020 (Figure 7).
The proportion of
households in the
Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone with borderline food consumption score in January 2020
slightly increased from 35 percent to 37 percent in same period in 2021
3.2.6 Coping Strategy
In January 2021, coping strategy was 3.75 compared with 1.17 recorded in the same period in 2020
indicating some deterioration in the trend. The trend implied that households were engaging more
in frequency of consumption based coping strategies used to mitigate food deficits between current
year and similar time last year. In January 2021, the index in the mixed farming and Marginal
Mixed Farming livelihood zones, was 1.8 and 5.7 compared to 1.3 and one in same period in 2020.
3.3 Utilization
Morbidity declined in both the under-fives and the general population except for morbidity from
malaria mainly as a result of good hand washing practises that was mitigation against the spread
37% 35%
3% 0%
63% 65%
97% 100%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
Jan,21 Jan,20 Jan,21 Jan,20
Marginal mixed farming Mixed farming
Pe
rce
nt
Ho
use
ho
lds
Poor Borderline Acceptable
Figure 7: Food Consumption Score
14
of COVID-19. The proportion of children under-fives with Mid Upper Arm Circumference with
colour categories measurement was normal (green) across the livelihood zones. Water treatment
remained rarely done in the lower part of the Marginal Mixed livelihood zone.
3.3.1 Morbidity and Mortality Patterns
The most common diseases among the under-fives and general populations were Upper
Respiratory Tract Infections
(URTI), Diarrhoea and Malaria. In
July to December 2020, URTIs and
diarrhea cases among the under-
fives decline by 47 and six percent
respectively compared with the
same period in 2019 (Figure 8). In
the general population, URTIs
diarrhea and malaria declined by
47.3, four and eight percent
respectively compared to the same
period in 2019. The decrease in
both under-fives and general
population was associated with use
of facemasks and hand washing
practices and reduced health-
seeking behavior among the caregivers especially those with respiratory tract infections for fear of
being tested for COVID 19 and isolation. In July to December 2020, malaria cases in under-fives
increased by 217 percent compared to same period in 2019 due to enhanced testing and limited
vector control. The outbreak of COVID 19 pandemic changed the health seeking behavior of the
members of the communities where most of them have kept off from the static health facilities due
to fear of infections and the stigma associated with COVID 19. Households resulted to use of
herbal treatments at home, over the counter purchase of drugs and only visited health facilities as
a last result. Poor health care seeking behavior due to COVID 19 stigma affected the uptake of
services especially in public health facilities. However, lack of adequate personal protective
equipment (PPEs) for health care workers also affected the quality of care and services. In the
period July to December 2020, dysentery and diarrhea declined by 79 and five percent respectively
compared to same period in 2019 which was associated with increased hand washing. Malaria
cases in July to December 2020, increased by 37 percent compared to same period in 2019. During
the same period under review Cholera, measles and typhoid cases were not reported.
-
1,000
2,000
3,000
4,000
5,000
6,000
Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Nu
mb
er
of
case
s
URTI-2019 URTI- 2020 Diarrhoea-2019
Figure 8: Morbidity in Under Fives
15
3.3.2 Immunization and Vitamin A Supplementation
The proportion of fully immunized
children in July to December 2020 was
94.75 percent compared to 90.75
percent in the same period in 2019
which was above the national target of
80 percent. There was a drop in
immunization by four percent
compared to the same period in 2019
as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic
and the health workers strike as well as
the non-attendance for immunization
services at static health facilities by
caregivers/mothers. Over the period
July to December 2020, the proportion
of Vitamin A supplementation in
children between 6-59 months
increased to 91.5 percent from 69.1 percent compared to the same period in 2019 though still above
the national target of 80 percent (Figure 9). However, for the children in the cohort 6-11 months,
the proportion of supplementation was 61 percent compared with 79 percent in the same period in
2019. For the children between 12 to 59 months, the proportion from July to December 2020 was
97 percent compared to 68 percent in the same period in 2019. The increased coverage was
associated with mother to child supplementation implemented through door-to-door campaigns by
community health volunteers (CHVs) during the Malezi Bora campaigns as a measure to address
COVID-19 pandemic since schools were closed. The coverage for children between 6-11 months
declined due to the health workers strike and also due to the reduced attendance for immunization
and Vitamin A supplementation at static facilities as well as no outreaches being conducted during
the period of the pandemic.
3.3.3 Nutritional Status and Dietary Diversity
According to NDMA in January
2021, the proportion of children
under-fives with Mid Upper Arm
Circumference with colour categories
measurement was green across the
livelihood zones (Figure 10). This
was attributed to improved meal
frequency at household level.
Moderate acute malnutrition in July to
December 2020, declined by 28
percent compared to the same period
in 2019, which was attributed to
caregivers / mothers failing to attend
health facilities for nutrition and growth monitoring services due to COVID 19 pandemic as well
as stock out of nutrition commodities. In the same period under review, severe acute malnutrition
69.1%79%
68%
91.5%
61%
97%
0.0%
20.0%
40.0%
60.0%
80.0%
100.0%
120.0%
6-59 Months 6-11 Months 12-59 Months
Pro
po
rtio
n o
f V
it. A
Co
vera
ge
July-Dec 2019 July-Dec 2020
Figure 9: Proportion of Vitamin A Supplementation
Figure 10: Proportion of MUAC
16
cases increased by eight percent
compared to the same period in
2019 (Figure 11). Moderate
severe acute malnutrition cases
worsen due to high defaulter rate
in seeking health services, lack
of nutrition commodities to
manage moderate acute
malnutrition and health workers
strike. The pandemic affected
IMAM coverage as less cases
were screened due to lack of
growth monitoring services for
children less than five years in
most health facilities due the
stigma caused by COVID 19 pandemic among both the care givers and health workers coupled by
inadequate PPEs and the health workers industrial action leading to high defaulter late. The supply
of nutrition commodities was also affected leading to poor recovery and non-response hence longer
average length of stay in IMAM programs. The number of meals consumed in both livelihood
zones was 2-3 meals per day, however it was normal at this time of the year. The meal composition
for under-fives in marginal farming livelihood zone included ugali, porridge, diluted milk with
water and tea, while in mixed marginal farming livelihood zone, ugali, rice, green grams, porridge
and tomato soup and on rare occasions, vegetables were consumed. In the marginal mixed farming
zones, general population consumed two meals per day, while children are consumed three meals
a day. The meals are predominantly two food groups composed of grains and legumes. The rates
were below the normal threshold <0.5/10,000/day for crude mortality and alert 1/10,000
children/day for under-five mortality.
3.3.4 Health and Nutrition Sector in COVID -19 Pandemic
The COVID 19 pandemic affected health seeking behavior among members of the community.
Fewer people visited the static health facilities due to stigma associated with the pandemic
screening that took taking place at the entry points of the static facilities. At only critical cases or
conditions, led to clients visiting the health facilities, communities preferred staying at home and
use local herbs or purchase over the counter drugs. Fewer mothers visited health facilities
especially for growth monitoring and promotion, and vitamin A supplementation. The integrated
health and nutrition outreaches that provided for health services access in hard-to-reach areas were
put on hold due to the pandemic hence those areas have not been receiving the services. Household
service delivery by the CHVs was stopped from the month of April following the declaration of
the pandemic, however, their services are gradually resuming since the month of June 2020. The
clients that were due for revisits defaulted and hence returned with more severe forms of
malnutrition and therefore increasing the average length of stay. The county and other stakeholders
provided door to door vitamin A supplementation through the CHVs and provision of health
messages to communities. There has been inadequate supply of nutrition commodities and PPEs
by the government. Nutritional International (NI) a partner in health and nutrition provided the
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
400
Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Cas
elo
ads
LTM (5-yr average) 2020 2019 2018 2017
Figure 11: Supplementary Feeding Trends
17
CHVs with cloth masks. The CHVs and organized community groups have been sensitized on
COVID 19 pandemic and other health and nutrition service delivery. The pandemic has resulted
to stock outs of essential commodities especially the nutrition-based commodities of which most
of them were imported into the country due to travel restrictions. There has been severe shortage
of commodities required in the management of both severe and moderate acute malnutrition. There
has been inadequate PPEs to the CHVs due to none consistent supplies.
3.3.5 Public Interventions, Risk Communication and Community Level Actions
The county government in collaboration with other multi-sectoral stakeholders endeavoured to
promote uptake of COVID-19 preventive measures among the members of the community. Varied
efforts were set including designated points for handwashing facilities at strategic points within
the communities. However, about 20 percent of these handwashing points are non-functional due
to the breakdown of taps and lack of water. The county continued with health promotion messaging
and educating communities on ways to avoid COVID-19 and what to do in the event of infection.
Despite the messaging, adherence to the directives on the pandemic prevention especially in public
spaces like markets is quite low while stigma on testing and infection and even cases of doubt of
the existence of COVID-19 still abound. There are no social safety net programs under the county
government to shield the communities from the negative economic impact as a result of the
pandemic. The national government launched the “Kazi Mtaani” safety net program targeting the
youths and the vulnerable but was not sensitive to hiring people from families with malnutrition
problems. The county also supported the sensitization of community organized groups including
CHVs on risk reduction.
3.3.6 Coordination and Leadership in COVID-19 Pandemic Preparedness and Response
The nutrition co-ordination forums were not functional (Table 15). However, the development of
key messages on maternal, infant and young child nutrition (MIYCN) in the context of COVID-
19 was undertaken at the national level and dissemination to the local communities done using
local vernacular radio stations. Development of response plan budgets, participation during
preparation of county food guidelines on COVID-19 and participation in various response
committees were also undertaken.
Table 15: COVID-19 Pandemic Steering Committee
Level Indicate name of forum e.g.
CNTF/ SCNTF (Indicate if active
or not)
Meeting
frequency
Indicate who funds coordination
forum e.g. GOK, partners etc. and add
notes as necessary
County County health stakeholder’s forum
County Nutrition Technical forum
County WSH Forum
Quarterly The partner funds while the department of
nutrition co-ordinates the forums
Sub
counties
Mbeere South and North None yet
Sanitation and Hygiene In July to December 2020, latrine coverage remained stable across both livelihood zones (Table
16). According to community interviews, water treatment was rarely done in the lower part of the
Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone. In Mbeere North, there was contamination of water
sources in Mwondu shallow well where households were advised to use alternative sources.
Samples of water were taken for analysis where results indicated high contamination with
18
coliforms and E.coli. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the suspension of all
community activities in community-led sanitation programs. However, hand washing practices
increased as safety measures related to the pandemic. Based on focused group discussions, the
majority of households in both livelihood zones stored water in Jerrycans and water tanks. Water
treatment was rarely done especially in the Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone. Adoption of
handwashing in response to COVID-19 led to a reduction in diarrhoea and intestinal worm cases
in the period under review.
Table 16: Latrine Coverage
Sub County/ Livelihood
zone
Latrine Coverage
January to June 2020 %
coverage
July to December 2020 %
coverage
Nthawa 96.8 96.8
Evurore 96.1 99
Muminji 93 93.7
Kanyuambora 95 98
Kiritiri/ Kiambere
(Marginal Mixed Farming
livelihood zone)
88 88.1
Gachoka 90 90.2
Makima Marginal Mixed
Farming livelihood zone) 85 85.3
Mwea 87 87
3.4 Trends of Key Food Security Indicators
Table 17: Key Food Security Indicators
Indicator Long rains assessment, JULY 2020 Short Rains Assessment Feb. 2021
% of maize stocks held by
households
16 percent below LTA
19 percent below the long term average
Livestock body condition Shoats
Fair to good for shoats in both
MMF and MF
Cattle
Good to Fair in MF zone and fair
to poor in MMF zone
Marginal mixed farming
Cattle: Fair
Sheep: Fair
Goat: Good
Mixed farming
Cattle: Good to Fair
Sheep: Fair
Goat: Good
Water consumption (litres
per person per day)
40 in MF
20 in MMF
Mixed farming: 50
Marginal mixed farming: 20
Price of maize (per kg) 31 35
Price of Goat (Ksh.) MF: 4,500-6,000
MMF: 5,000-7,000
Average price of a goat was Ksh. 5,545 for
a medium sized goat
Distance to grazing MF: 2.5-7
MMF: 4 – 10
Marginal mixed farming: 4-10
Mixed farming: 1-2
Terms of trade (kg) 187 158
Coping strategy index Marginal mixed farming: 2.4
Mixed farming: 2.5
Marginal mixed farming: 5.7
Mixed farming: 1.8
Food consumption score
(NDMA)
Poor - 0 percent
Borderline – 19 percent
Acceptable - 81 percent
Poor - 0 percent
Borderline - 20 percent
Acceptable - 80 percent
19
3.5 Education
3.5.1 Enrolment
On opening of schools in 2021, enrolment in ECDE declined by four percent compared to 2020.
Enrolment in ECDE for boys and girls declined by four and five percent as a result of migration
of parents from one area to another. In primary schools, enrolment decreased by one percent
compared to year 2020. However, in both boys and girls, enrolment declined by one percent for
each respectively compared to the previous year. The decline in enrolment for boys was associated
with indiscipline, child labor specifically in miraa farming, bodaboda and other casual labour. In
girls, it was mainly due to pregnancies and early marriage. In secondary schools, enrolment decline
by two percent compared to the same period in 2020 (Table 18). However for both and girls,
enrolment decline by one and three percent respectively compared to similar period in 2020. The
high enrolment decline in girls was associated with pregnancies, early marriages and some girls
elope. In boys it was as a result of indiscipline and truancy, joining the labour market (Miraa, boda
casual labour), and lack of school fees.
Table 18: Enrolment in Schools
Enrolment Term II 2021 (Current) Term I 2020 (Previous) Comments (reasons for
increase or decrease) №
Boys
№
Girls
Total №
Boys
№
Girls
Total
ECD 4,803 4,767 9,570 5,003 5,006 10,009 The decrease due to migration
Primary 31,967 32,022 63,989 32,318 32,254 64,572 The decrease is due to
pregnancies and early marriages
for the girls while the boys have
joined the labour market
Secondary 12,782 12,557 25,339 12,932 12,900 25,832 Decrease due to pregnancies,
early marriage and lack of
school fees for girls, while the
boys have joined the labour
market, lack of school fees,
drugs and indiscipline.
Total 49,552 49,346 98,898 50,253 50,160 100,413
3.5.2 Effects of COVID-19 Pandemic on Schools
No infrastructural damage was reported despite some schools being quarantine centres. However,
drop out in enrolment was reported but not related to the effect of COVID 19 pandemic. Prolong
closure of schools resulted to indiscipline among pupils, drug and substance abuse as well as girls
pregnancies. E-learning was not embrace during the closure of schools due to the pandemic (Table
19). This was due to lack of smart phones and IT expertise, lack of internet connectivity, lack of
television sets, lack of supervision and enforcement of learning at home, general lack of interest
in home-based learning. Head teachers were advised to provide enough hand wash facilities in
their schools as well as observing social distance of 1.5 m by arrange the desks. However, social
distancing in school remained a big challenge. Learners were supposed to have a face mask at all
times in schools. Procurement of desks for 66 (30 primary and 36 secondary) schools was done by
the MOE. Provision of faces masks and hand washing buckets to 10 schools was done by Kenya
Commercial Bank-Embu Branch, Free primary Education, Free Day Secondary Education fund
were disbursed by Ministry of Education that was used to purchase thermos guns to all schools.
Transition infrastructure was done to eight schools in Mbeere region.
20
Table 19: COVID 19 in Schools
Livelih
ood
Zone
Effect on Enrolment Infrastr
ucture
damage
in
schools
used as
quaranti
ne
centres
Estimated% of Learning
continuity (e-learning by
KICD) during pro-longed
closure
Food
storage
during
prolong
ed
closure
Cases of child
abuse during
pro-longed
closure
ECD Prima
ry
Secondar
y
EC
D
Primar
y
Seconda
ry
Boys Girls
All
liveliho
od
zones
The
decre
ase
due
to
migr
ation
Decrea
se in
enrolm
ent due
to
pregna
ncies
and
early
marria
ges for
the
girls
while
the
boys
have
joined
the
labour
market
A
decrease
in
enrolment
due to
pregnanci
es, early
marriage
and lack
of school
fees for
girls,
while the
boys have
joined the
labour
market,
lack of
school
fees,
drugs and
indiscipli
ne.
None 0-
20
%
0-20% 0-20% Poor 77 285
3.5.3 Effects of Short Rains on Schools
Only 11 schools (8 primary and 3 secondary schools) suffered the effects of short rains resulting
in sunken toilets, the collapse of mud walls and blown off or leaking roofs (Table 20).
Table 20: Short Rains Effects in Schools
Name of
sub-county
Number
of ECD
centres
Number
of
Primary
schools
Number of
Secondary
schools
Total Number
of Schools
with damages.
Nature of damaged infrastructure
e.g. damaged walls, roof, reading
materials, toilets etc.
Mbeere
North
None 3 None 3 Sunken toilets
Mbeere
South
None 5 3 8 Collapse of mud walls damaged,
sunken toilets, blown off/leaking roofs
Total None 8 3 11
21
Several mitigation measures were undertaken to intervene on the impact of short rains. The
interventions included reconstruction of toilets and improvement of the drainage systems in
affected schools in Mbeere region (Table 21).
Table 21: Interventions Required for Schools
Name of Sub-county Impact Intervention
Mbeere North Congestion in the existing
sanitary facilities
N.G-CDF has funded the reconstruction of
the toilets.
Mbeere South Flooding in the
classrooms
Improvement of the drainage systems in
affected schools
Water, Sanitation and Hygiene
Most schools in Mbeere South had no access to safe drinking water. However, the schools were
provided with storage tanks after the end of the short rains to mitigate the effects of COVID-19
pandemic through handwashing. No schools had handwashing facilities in the region and 51
schools (21 ECDE, 21 primary and 9 secondary) had no access to safe drinking water within 100
metres (Table 22). The menstrual support or dignity kits for girls were distributed in primary
schools in March 2020 from the government support. The insufficiency of sanitary towels for
vulnerable girls continued to affect their attendance, retention and completion of schools resulting
in increased absenteeism, poor performance and low self-esteem.
Table 22: Water, Sanitation and Hygiene
Name of
sub-
county
№ schools with inadequate
functional latrine (i.e. Pupil
toilet Ratio- PtOR of above
1:60)
№ schools with no hand-
washing facilities
№ schools with no access to
safe water (functional source
within 100m)
ECD Primary Secondary ECD Primary Secondary ECD Primary Secondary
Mbeere
North and
South
0 0 0 0 0 0 21 21 9
Total 0 0 0 0 0 0 21 21 9
3.5.4 School Feeding
A total of 240 schools (99 in Mbeere North and 141 in Mbeere South) were not benefitting from
any school meal programme translating to a total of 62,987 pupils (31,965 boys and 31,022 girls)
(Table 23). Home Grown School Meal (HGSM) funds had not been disbursed to schools over the
last two years thereby affecting the delivery of the school meals feeding programme.
Table 23: School Meals Program
Name of
sub-
county
№ of
schools
with
school
feeding
in
March
2020
HGSM
CSMP Other types
of school
feeding
(Please
specify)
Total number of
beneficiaries
No. of pupils
not on any
school feeding
program in
March 2020
№
Boys
№
Girls
№
Boys
№
Girls
№
Boys
№
Girls
№
Boys
№
Girls
№
Boys
№
Girls
Mbeere
North
0 - - 0 0 - - 0 0 13,698 12,188
22
Mbeere
South
0 - - 0 0 - - 0 0 18,267 18,834
Subtotal 0 - - 0 0 - - 0 0 31,965 31,022
Grand
Total
(boys +
girls)
- 0 0 62,987
4.0 FOOD SECURITY PROGNOSIS
4.1 Prognosis Assumptions
Food security in the Mbeere region will likely depend on the following assumptions:
According to international forecasts and the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD),
La Niña conditions are likely to persist through April 2021 in the northern hemisphere. As
a result, the March-May 2021 long rains in Kenya are likely to be average in the marginal
agricultural areas.
Maize prices will likely remain below the long term averages as harvesting commences.
Despite the forage and water resources being fair, the forecasted average March-May long
rains will likely result to improvements in forage and water resources.
Livestock prices were driven by fair forage and water resources and they are likely to
follow seasonal trends and remain above average due to favourable body conditions and
limited supplies in the markets.
4.2 Food Security Outlook
4.2.1 Food Security Outlook (February – April 2021)
Through February, the short rains harvests continued to support households with food availability.
However, several households are expected to continue to depend on market for food purchases.
Near average livestock productivity will likely provide milk and income from sales through
February. Staple food prices will likely to remain high from reduced market supplies, negatively
affecting household purchasing power and food access. Sale of crop are expected to commence
after harvesting which will gradually provide households with food and income. The March to
May, long rains are likely to provide households with agricultural wage labour opportunities and
improve food access. Oher labour opportunities will likely come from miraa that will likely
improve household incomes. The forage and water resources are likely to improve thereby
affecting positively on livestock productivity. Households are likely to remain in Stressed (IPC
Phase 2).
4.2.2 Food Security Outlook (May - July)
Average agricultural wage labour opportunities are likely to be above average from May with short
cycle crop harvests that will likely improve the household food availability and consumption. Near
average livestock productivity is expected thereby provide milk and income to households. Above
average livestock body conditions are likely to influence above average livestock prices. Crop
harvest will likely bring down staple food prices, which in turn will increase food availability and
access at household level. Stocks at household level will likely be improve leading to improve
consumption. Households are likely to remain in Stressed Phase (IPC Phase 2).
23
5.0 CONCLUSION AND INTERVENTIONS
5.1 Conclusion
Short rain season is the main season in the region contributing more of food and nutritional
security. However, with the below average short rains performance, food security is likely to
depend on spread of COVID 19 pandemic and related restrictions, livestock diseases especially
Foot and Mouth Diseases that may lead to closure of livestock markets thereby reducing the
purchasing power of households, high staple food prices and malnutrition levels.
5.1.1 Phase Classification
The livelihood zones in the county was classified as Stressed (IPC Phase 2). The proportions of
households with borderline and acceptable food consumption score was 20 and 80 percent
respectively. Coping strategy index in the mixed farming and Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood
zones was 1.8 and 5.7 respectively. The proportion of children under-fives with Mid Upper Arm
Circumference with colour categories measurement was normal (green) across the livelihood
zones.
5.1.2 Summary of Findings
The proportions of households with borderline and acceptable food consumption scores were 20
percent and 80 percent respectively. In the Mixed Farming livelihood zone, households with
acceptable food consumption were 96.7 percent in December 2020. However, the proportion of
households in the Marginal Mixed Farming livelihood zone with borderline food consumption
scores in the same period was 36.7 percent while acceptable was 63.3 percent. In the Marginal
Mixed Farming and Mixed Farming livelihood zones, reduced coping strategy index was 6.8 and
2.6 respectively. The proportion of children under-fives with Mid Upper Arm Circumference with
colour categories measurement was normal (green) across the livelihood zones.
5.1.3 Sub-County Ranking
Table 24: Sub-County Ranking
Sub County Food Security
Rank (Worst -
Best)
Main Food Security Threat
Mbeere South 1 Reduced crop production, waterlogging in the black cotton
soils
Limited access to opportunities, increased cases of morbidity
Increased distance to water sources, High proportion of
children at risk of malnutrition, Reduced cereal stocks,
declining water consumption, fair forage condition
Mbeere North 2 More opportunities for household income, Near average water
consumption, improve pipeline network and irrigation water
5.2 Ongoing Interventions
5.2.1 Food Interventions
There are no food interventions currently in the county.
24
5.2.2 Non-Food Interventions
Table 25: Non-Food on going Interventions
Intervention Objective Specific
Location
Activity
target
Cost No. of
beneficiar
ies
Implemen
tation
Time
Frame
Implementati
on
stakeholders
Agriculture
Implementati
on of micro
livelihood
projects by
Common
Interest
Groups along
Green Grams,
poultry, dairy,
mangoes,
value chains
Increased
productivi
ty and
profitabili
ty
All wards 54M 4,500
direct
beneficiari
es
2020/2021 NARIGP/MO
A
Capacity
building of
NARIGP
funded groups
Increased
productivi
ty and
profitabili
ty
All wards 456,000 2,280
direct
beneficiari
es
2020/2021 NARIGP/MO
A
Provision of
post-harvest
equipment
Reduce
post-
harvest
losses
All wards 4M 0ver
800HH
Jan-March
2021
KCEP/CRAL
MOA
Livestock
Routine
animal
husbandry
Improved
Living
standards
Increased
income
Mbeere
South &
North
2M 2200 HH 2020/2021 Livestock
production
department
Pasture
conservation
Sustained
TLU’s
Increased
income
Mbeere
South &
North
3M 600HH 2020/2021 Livestock
production
department
Livestock
vaccination
Sustained
TLU’s
Increased
income
Mbeere
South &
North
5M 20 HH 2020/2021 Farmers
Health and Nutrition
Vitamin A
Supplementati
on
Improve
immunity
Health
facilities in
all divisions
400,000 23,933 2020/2021 DOH, NI
25
Intervention Objective Specific
Location
Activity
target
Cost No. of
beneficiar
ies
Implemen
tation
Time
Frame
Implementati
on
stakeholders
Zinc
Supplementati
on
Improve
immunity
Only
therapeutic at
facilities
level
200,000 19,866 2020/2021 DOH, NI
Management
of Acute
Malnutrition
(IMAM)
Prevent
malnutriti
on level
All facilities
implementin
g feeding
programmes
8M 3,501 2020/2021 DOH,
KEMSA,USI
AD
IYCN
Interventions
(EBF and
Timely Intro
of
complementar
y Foods)
Prevent
malnutriti
on level
All facilities
implementin
g feeding
programmes
2M 24,357 2020/2021 DOH,NI
Water
Installation of
solar system
Improve
water
access
Kiambeere
(MMF)
Ntharawe/Ng
ambari
Borehole
1.2M 300HH 2020/2021 ECG
Electrification
of Borehole
Improve
water
access
Kiambeere
(MMF)
Gacavari
Borehole
2M 500HH 2020/2021 ECG
Extension of
pipeline
Improve
water
access
Kiambeere
(MMF)
Gitaru-
Mutuovare-
Karura line
20M 3000HH 2020/2021 ECG/KENGE
N
Education
Supply of
desks and
lockers
Improve
access to
education
All wards
66; 30
Primary
& 36,
Seconda
ry
5M 3900 2020/2021 MOE
Supply of face
masks
Control
spread of
COVID-
19
All wards
8
schools
2M 2314 2020/2021 KCB and
MOE
Provision of
water tanks
Enhanced
storage of
safe
Mbeere
North and
South
47
schools
5M 3000 2020/2021 MOE, NDMA
and Parents
26
Intervention Objective Specific
Location
Activity
target
Cost No. of
beneficiar
ies
Implemen
tation
Time
Frame
Implementati
on
stakeholders
drinking
water
5.3 Recommended Interventions
5.3.1 Food Interventions
There were no food interventions in the county.
5.3.2 Non-Food Interventions
Table 26: Non-Food Recommended Interventions
Intervention Objective Specific Location Activit
y
target
Cost No. of
benef
iciari
es
Implem
entation
Time
Frame
Implementati
on
stakeholders
Agriculture
Training on
post-harvesting
management
Reduced
postharves
t losses
Sub countywide 5M 2020/20
21
Department of
Agriculture
Provision of
farm inputs
such as
certified seeds
and fertilizer
Improve
productivit
y
Sub countywide 6M 600
HH
2020/20
21
ECG and Other
stakeholders
Health and Nutrition
Conduct mass
screening and
referral at the
hotspot
Identificati
on of
malnutriti
on cases in
the county
Mutuovare,
Riachina Gitaraka,
Riakanau, Mutitu,
Iriaitune,
Muthanthara and
Kamarandi
1.2M 23933 2020/20
21
DOH,NDMA,
NI
Procurement
and
distribution of
nutrition
supplementary
and therapeutic
feeds
Control
malnutriti
on cases in
children
Mutuovare,
Riachina Gitaraka,
Riakanau, Mutitu,
Iriaitune,
Muthanthara and
Kamarandi
12M 2714 2020/20
21
DOH,NDMA,
USAID,KEMS
A
Conduct
integrated
health and
nutrition
outreaches in
hot spots
Improve
immunity
Kiambere , Mwea,
Mavuria Evurore
Muminji
Nthawa
500,00
0
7200 2020/20
21
MOH (Embu
County)
NDMA
27
Intervention Objective Specific Location Activit
y
target
Cost No. of
benef
iciari
es
Implem
entation
Time
Frame
Implementati
on
stakeholders
Nutrition
survey
Identificati
on of
malnouris
hed
children
All locations in
Mbeere South
3.3M 157,4
13
2020/20
21
County
government
NDMA
UNICEF
Livestock
Pasture
establishment
and
conservation
Improve
livestock
productivit
y
Mbeere North &
South
0.8M 2500 2020/20
21
Embu County
Govt-
Livestock and
Veterinary
Services
Construction of
community hay
stores
Improve
livestock
productivit
y
Mbeere North &
South
2M 50
group
s
2020/20
21
Embu County
Govt-
Livestock and
Veterinary
Services
Livestock
water
development
Improve
water for
livestock
productivit
y
Mbeere North &
South
14M 1000 2020/20
21
Embu County
Govt-
Livestock and
Veterinary
Services
Disease
surveillance
along the stock
routes
Prevention
of
livestock
to improve
productivit
y
Mbeere North &
South
0.4M 29000 2020/20
21
Embu County
Govt-
Livestock and
Veterinary
Services
Vaccination of
livestock
Prevention
of
livestock
to improve
productivit
y
Mbeere North &
South
3M 3000 2020/20
21
Embu County
Govt-
Livestock and
Veterinary
Services
Water
Rehabilitation
of
Mugwanjogu
earth dam
Improve
water
access to
household
s
Mbeere North
(Evurore)
4.0 M 500H
Hs
2020/20
21
NDMA, ECG
other partners
Improvement
of ENA
Siakago Main
pipeline (5km)
Improve
water
access to
household
s
Nthawa 6M 1500
HHs
2020/20
21
NDMA, ECG,
other partners
28
Intervention Objective Specific Location Activit
y
target
Cost No. of
benef
iciari
es
Implem
entation
Time
Frame
Implementati
on
stakeholders
Fencing of
Karimari and
Muchonoke
water pans to
enhance
protection
Improve
water
access to
household
s
Nthawa and
Muminji wards
1M 600
HHs
2020/20
21
NDMA, ECG,
other partners
Rehabilitation
of sanitation
facilities and
fencing of
Karambari
Earth dam
Improve
water
access to
household
s
Muminji ward 800,00
0
500
HHs
2020/20
21
NDMA, ECG,
other partners
Education
Release
HGSMP funds
Enhance
retention
All Wards 150M 63,99
7
2020/20
21
CDF, MOE and
Parents
Provide
permanent
classrooms
& toilets
Improve
access to
education
Mavuria, Makima
Karaba
8.5M 2,100 2020/20
21
CDF, MOE and
Parents
Provision of
extra water
tanks
Improve
water
access for
pupils
Kamarandi,
Kiambere,
makima,
5.6M 14,00
0
2020/20
21
CDF, MOE
and Parents
Supply at least
2 face masks to
each of the
learners
Prevent
transmissi
on of
COVID 19
All Wards 4M 63,99
7
2020/20
21
MOE/County
Government,
Parents
Provide extra
learning spaces
and more desks
to all schools
Improve
access to
education
All wards
2.2M 29851 2020/20
21
MOE, County
Govt. parents