Prolonged droughts are devastating lives and land across east Africa, with an unprecedented third consecutive year of below-average rainfall expected in 2023. In Ukambani in southeast Kenya, local communities are experiencing severe water and food insecurity as a result of the drought, which is forcing many to sell land and livestock in order to afford daily necessities. This is leading to poverty and hardship for a population who depend largely on farming to sustain their livelihoods.

We will support two communities to construct a sand dam - a sustainable rainwater harvesting solution that captures up to 40 million litres of water, replenishing every rainy season to provide a year-round water source of clean water that meets WHO drinking standards. Sand dams recharge groundwater levels and raise the water table, helping to restore drought-degraded land that surrounds it. When combined with climate-smart agriculture, farmers are able to grow more food to eat, store and sell.