More than 28 million people across East Africa in Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan and Kenya are on the brink of famine as a result of climate change, ongoing conflicts, and the high cost of living. Women and girls are often among the most affected – mothers will miss meals so their children can eat, and girls are forced to sacrifice their education to care for their families while their parents search for food.  

As part of Oxfam’s response to the East Africa hunger crisis, we’re working with local partner organizations to implement cash assistance programs in order to meet local needs immediately and appropriately.  

In Samburu County, Kenya, a five-year drought has impacted the livelihoods of the pastoralist community.  

“When the drought came, we lost our cattle. Then, when the cattle raiders came, we were forced to leave our farms. Here at Rantau camp, we need some financial assistance. I have to support two children who are scheduled to join college next year.” – Damaris Leleruk, Samburu County 

When community members started losing cattle, some parents had to take their children out of school so that they could help earn money for food and basic necessities.  

“None of my children are going to school because I cannot afford to pay their school fees. My children had to get casual jobs like charcoal burning so that they could earn a little money to help support the family” – Munyere Lentoijoni, Samburu County.   

In Samburu County, Oxfam’s cash transfer program provides Ksh 7986 – around $83 Canadian dollars – to around 1032 vulnerable households who are unable to meet their basic needs. Households receive the money through an electronic money transfer (M-Pesa).  

Why are cash transfers so beneficial? 

1. They’re empowering: Cash transfers allow people to decide what their families need most during difficult times. They allow families to maintain their dignity and their ability to make choices for themselves.  
2. They’re secure: The money goes straight to the recipient and the delivery is invisible to others, so there is no risk of it being intercepted. 
3. They’re immediate: Once the money is lodged, it will be in the recipient’s account within 3 days. This is the fastest method of delivery across the humanitarian sector.
4. They’re reliable: When fuel prices and availability are unstable, it can cause delays or cancellations in delivering goods and aid, leaving people without essential items. Cash transfers are reliable and less risky.
5. They support the local market: Rather than competing with small markets and traders, cash transfers actually support them. Cash transfers provide funds for purchasing goods, helping to sustain the market.  

In Samburu, cash transfers allowed community members to pay for food, livestock, medications, transportation, school fees and more. Understanding that different people have different needs, cash transfers let the recipients prioritize what their families need most.  

Your donation can help send cash assistance to a family in need.