BARINGO COUNTY 2023 LONG RAINS FOOD AND NUTRITION SECURITY ASSESSMENT A joint report by the Kenya Food Security Steering Group (KFSSG) and Baringo County Steering Group (CSG), July 2023 The 2023 long rains assessment was conducted by the technical members of the Baringo county steering group (CSG) and supported by the Kenya Food Security Steering Group (KFSSG). The assessment was carried out in all the main livelihood zones. The main objective of the assessment was to develop an objective, evidence base and transparent food and nutrition security situation analysis following the onset of the long rains of 2023. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were used to carry out the situation analysis. The onset of the long rains was observed in the second dekad of March which was normal and the amount received were normal totaling 91-121 percent of normal. Temporal distribution was fair to good while the spatial distribution was fairly even. The season ceased in the third dekad of May which was normal. Insecurity incidents were reported in parts of Baringo North and Baringo South sub counties but were contained. Other shocks were high food prices, crop pests, crop failure and livestock diseases. Acreage put under rain fed agriculture was above long term mean (LTA) but the projected yield will be below LTA with maize accounting for 74 percent of LTA. Acreage put under irrigated agriculture was above LTA and the projected yield will be above LTA for most of the crops. Cereal stocks for farmers were extremely below LTA but for traders and millers, the stocks were above LTA due to high demand. Forage conditions were fair to good across the livelihood zones, with Pastoral areas experiencing pasture deficit. Livestock body condition was fair to good for various livestock species while milk production was fair. Milk consumption was below LTA while the milk prices were above LTA. Livestock prices were improving and were within the seasonal range while cereal prices were still very high compared to LTA. Terms of trade were below the LTA and outside seasonal range. The main water sources were normal while the trekking distances were slightly above LTA in the Pastoral areas and normal in other livelihood zones. Waiting time at water sources and water consumption per person per day remained normal. The most common disease was upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) for both children and adults. The county had acceptable food consumption score though the Pastoral areas had the majority of the sampled households not having acceptable food consumption score. About 39, 24 and 37 percent of the sampled households were applying none copping, stressed and crisis food based coping strategies respectively while 21, 32 and 46 percent of the sampled households applied crisis, stressed and none copping livelihood based coping strategies respectively. Tiaty East and West sub counties had the lowest latrine coverage at eight percent while hand washing practices were fairly fair across the livelihood zones. Malnutrition levels were still critical with a GAM rate of 23 percent while children at risk of malnutrition was above LTA at 22 percent. When comparing the previous term and the current term, there was a marginal decline in school enrolment at ECDE and primary level while at the secondary level, there was a slight improvement in enrolment. Most of the ECDE and primary schools had access to school feeding program. The overall IPC phase classification for the county is at phase two (Stressed) whereby Pastoral livelihood zone was in phase three, Agro-Pastoral zone was in phase two while the Irrigated cropping livelihood zone was in phase one (NoneMinimal). EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................................................ ii 3.1.1 Crop production ......................................................................................................................... 6 3.1.2 Cereal stocks .......................................................................................................................... 8 3.1.3 Livestock production ................................................................................................................. 9 3.2.1 Market prices ........................................................................................................................... 16 3.2.2 Terms of trade .......................................................................................................................... 17 3.2.3 Income sources ......................................................................................................................... 18 3.2.4 Water access and availability .................................................................................................. 18 3.2.5 Food consumption .................................................................................................................... 21 3.2.6 Coping strategy ........................................................................................................................ 22 3.3.1Morbidity and mortality patterns ........................................................................................... 23 3.3.2 Immunization and Vitamin A supplementation .................................................................... 24 3.3.3 Nutrition status ......................................................................................................................... 27 3.3.4 Sanitation and Hygiene ............................................................................................................ 29 3.5.1 Enrolment ................................................................................................................................. 32 3.5.2 Water availability in schools during the season .................................................................... 33 3.5.3 Effect of the season on school infrastructure ......................................................................... 33 3.5.4 Inter sector links....................................................................................................................... 33 5.1.1 Phase classification ................................................................................................................... 37 5.1.2 Summary of findings ................................................................................................................ 37 5.1.3 Sub County ranking ................................................................................................................. 37 5.2.1 Food interventions.................................................................................................................... 38 5.2.2 None food interventions ........................................................................................................... 39 5.3. Recommended interventions ......................................................................................................... 44 5.3.1 Food interventions.................................................................................................................... 44 5.3.2 None food interventions ........................................................................................................... 45 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 County background Baringo County borders Turkana and Samburu Counties to the north, Laikipia to the east, Nakuru and Mixed farming Kericho to the south, Uasin Gishu to the southwest, and Elgeyo - Marakwet Irrigated Cropping 14 39 and West Pokot to the west. The Pastoral county covers an approximate area of Agro-Pastoral 29 5 11,015 square kilometers (Km2) with a Marginal Mixed population of 666,783 persons (2019 Housing and Population census, Kenya National Bureau of Statistics). Figure 1: Population based on livelihood zones The county is divided into six (6) sub- Counties namely: - Baringo North, Baringo Central, Baringo South, Mogotio, Tiaty and Eldama Ravine. There are five main livelihood zones in the county which include Mixed farming, Pastoral, Agro-pastoral, Marginal mixed and Irrigated cropping (Figure 1). The main hazards in the county across the livelihoods are drought, water shortages and conflicts. Other hazards are livestock pests and diseases in the Pastoral and Agro-Pastoral livelihood zones 1.2 Objectives of the assessment The main objective of the 2023 Long Rains Food Security Assessment (LRA) was to conduct an evidence-based and transparent food security situation analysis following the performance of the 2023 long rains season in Baringo county, taking into account the cumulative effect of previous seasons, and to provide recommendations for possible response options based on the situation analysis. Specifically, the assessment aimed at ascertaining the quantity and quality of the 2023 short rains and assess the impact of the season on food security situation, obtain adequate and reliable information for projecting food security needs, assess the geographical spread of other hazards, and determine the impact of the shock on livelihoods, assess the impact on livelihoods including crop and livestock production, markets, water, nutritional status and socio-economic conditions. The assessment also aimed at taking stock of the available response activities addressing food insecurity and malnutrition and to establish required non-food intervention, with particular emphasis on programs that promote preparedness and build household resilience. It also assessed potential food needs, including options for appropriate transfer modalities such as food for assets, cash and vouchers, safety nets and general food distribution. 1.3 Methodology and approach The 2023 Long Rains Assessment exercise was conducted by a multi sectoral and multi-agency team comprising of the County Steering Group members who included technical experts from the Departments of agriculture, livestock, water, education and health and nutrition as well as development partners based at the county level. The assessment was conducted from 10th -18th July 2023. The process began with the administration of the sector checklists followed by the initial CSG meeting whose main agenda was to give the aims and objectives of the assessment. This was then followed by sector presentations and later a review of the sector checklists. The technical teams then proceeded to the field for a fact-finding mission upon sampling representative sites based on livelihood zones, with the aim of triangulating the information provided in the checklists with the actual situation on the ground. The process involved an in-depth analysis of primary data collected through Key Informant Interviews (KII), semi-structured community Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) comprising both gender, market surveys, and sectoral checklists. During the transect drives, visual inspection techniques were also employed and observations noted. Secondary data was collected through the checklists which were administered to the relevant departments for collection of quantitative data and gave sectoral briefs during the county steering group. Other data that was available to assist in the analysis included livelihood zone data, satellite data for rainfall, routine Demographic Health Information Systems (DHIS) data, National Drought Management Authority bulletins and SMART survey report among others. Data collected was analysed at the sub-county and livelihood zone levels and sectoral county reports prepared. Further analysis was done using the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) reference tools. The team later compiled and drafted county report whose preliminary findings were presented to the CSG for adoption and ownership. 2.0 DRIVERS OF FOOD AND NUTRITION SECURITY 2.1 Rainfall performance The onset of the long rains season took place during the second dekad of March which was normal. The amount of rains received during the season were normal with Tiaty East, Mogotio, Eldama Ravine and parts of Baringo South receiving 111-125 percent of the normal rains while the rest of the county including Baringo North, Baringo Central and Parts of Baringo South sub counties receiving 91-110 percent of the normal rains. In terms of temporal distribution, the peak of the season was observed in the second dekad of April while in the month of May, there was a significant decline in the amount of rains received which were below normal compared to the long term mean (LTA). The spatial distribution was relatively even across the county although there were some pockets in Tiaty which include Silale and Tirioko wards which had uneven distribution. The season ceased normally during the third dekad of May although the county did receive some significant rains in the month of June (Figure 2). The county also got off-season rains in the third dekad of June. Baringo County-Jan - Dec 2023 RFE (2023) RFEAVG NDVI (2023) NDVIAVG 0.7 120 0.6 100m I V D N0.5 89 00 l l a 0.4 60 R 0.3 40 0.2 20 0.1 0 MonthDekad Figure 2: Rainfall performance 2.2 InsecurityConflict Baringo County is among conflict prone areas in the ASALs of Kenya, which has a long history of cattle rustling which dates back to 1970s. It has transformed from traditional practice to the current criminal militarized activity. The root cause of perennial conflict in Baringo is majorly resource conflict aggravated by proliferation of small firearms, successive political incitements, severe drought, cultural practices, economic marginalization and scarcity of resources (such as productive land, water and good infrastructure). These conflicts result in loss of lives, loss of property and livelihoods, displacement of people and lead to poverty. It also leads to closure of critical facilities for example schools, dispensaries, roads, markets and destruction of water points and irrigation schemes. During drought spells, rising tension and sporadic attacks over shared resources increase at the following hotspots; Baringo South sub county - Mukutani, Mochongoi, Arabal, Kiserian, Kasiela, Rugus, Lomaiwe, Ngelecha, Chebinyiny, Noosukuro, Tuyotich, Sinoni and Kapendasum. Baringo North sub county-Yatya, Kagir, Chemoe, Ngaratuko, Kinyach, Kaborion, Kapturo, Kesumet, Chepkisin, Kalabata and Kinyach. Tiaty East and West sub counties- Nadome, Kapedo, Koloa, Loruk, Amaya, Lemuyek, Makutano, Kositei, Kipnai and Loiwat. SamburuBaringo county border - Longewan and Losuk . Baringo-Laikipia border - Olmoran LNC. These conflicts result to communities being pushed to move to safer places with their cattle or livestock thus increased incidences of drought related livestock diseases such as CCPP, FMD, LSD, ECF etc. During these times families are separated, early pregnancies, malnutrition cases and school drop outs. Loss of livelihoods and depletion of water sources is also reported. During the season under review, approximately 3,982 households were affected and interfering with their seasonal activities. The conflict affected Baringo North, Baringo south and Tiaty sub counties. Shelters of some of the affected households were razed to ashes while others were broken into. Unspecified number of populations have either been integrated with their relatives and neighbors in safer nearest villages. No IDP camp has been set up though hosting families have cited congestion in their houses requiring humanitarian support. (Situation report July 2023, by Baringo County Disaster Risk Management). All school which were previously temporary closed due to insecurity have been opened (Kapendasum, Arabal, Kasiela, Kagir and chepkesin primary schools) in Baringo South and North. The impacts of conflict with respect to food security in the afore-mention areas include; reduced potential land acreage earmarked for crop production (Embosos, Ol arabal Mukutani irrigation schemes, Mochongoi, Kerio valley), failed farmers extension services, infrastructure vandalism, suspended development partners activities, declined market operations and displacement of population. Following the socioeconomic effects of cattle rustling in Baringo county, the following measures will go into arresting the escalating situation; The pastoralists be encouraged to practice livelihoods diversification, increased water points and pasture development in various places, tackle invasive species in their grazing fields, regular peace meetings, enhanced road network, capacity building of grazing committees, enhance security patrols in hotspot areas mentioned above, forceful disarmament and the long term plan is to expand educational institutions in the areas of the aggressor and registration of community land as private land (individual title) or as community land under Community land Act 2016. 2.3 Other shocks and hazards Shocks High cereal prices Cereal prices particularly for maize continued to be very high compared to the LTA hence limiting access to the vulnerable households. During the assessment period, maize prices retailed at more than 70 percent of the LTA and hence affecting terms of trade more so for the Pastoral and Agro-pastoral households. Hazards Crop failure Crop failure for the maize crop was mostly observed in the Agro-pastoral livelihood zone due to the poor performance of the rains during the month of May whereby it ceased raining when the crops were at the most critical stage of grain fillingtussling. Crop pests Sporadic cases of fall army worms were observed across the county attacking maize crop in the Mixed farming and Agro-pastoral livelihood zones and this may lead to significant crop loses. Livestock diseases The county experienced sporadic cases of livestock diseases which affected productivity. Some of the diseases prevalent in the county include CCPP, lumpy skin diseases PPR among others. 3.0 IMPACTS OF DRIVERS ON FOOD AND NUTRITION SECURITY 3.1 Availability 3.1.1 Crop production The long rains season is important for food and Nutrition security in the county as almost 80 percent of the countys food needs are derived from it. The season is relied upon for production of various food crops and in recharge of water bodies for irrigation purposes. Even though the county received relatively normal rains in terms of amount, its distribution was erratic and hence affecting planting activities. Farmers planted at different times depending on the local onset of the season such that by the time the season was ending, crops were at different physiological stages. Table 1 shows main food crops grown in the County which include maize, beans, millets, potatoes, cowpeas and sorghum. Other crops are horticultural crops (Fruits and vegetables) and Cash crops (Coffee, Cotton, Macadamia, and pyrethrum) Table 1: Contribution of crops to food and income Livelihood Crop Income Food Agro pastoral Maize 10 90 Beans 15 85 Finger millet 40 60 Cowpeas 40 60 Mixed Maize 40 60 Beans 40 60 Finger millet 30 70 Irrigated Maize 80 20 Tomatoes 90 10 Water melons 90 10 Seed maize 90 10 Rain fed agriculture Table 2: Rain fed agriculture Crop Area planted Long Term 2023 Long rains Long Term Average during 2023 Average (5 year) season production (5 year) production Long rains area planted during the (90 kg bags) during the Long rains season Long rains season (Ha) Projected season (Ha) (90 kg bags) 1. Maize 45,786 39,718 732,576 992,950 2. Beans 23,267 20,244 93,068 161,952 3. Sorghum 1,695 1,685 13,560 20,220 4. Irish Potatoes 3,906 1,800 156,750 179,000 The area planted with maize crop was 115 percent of the LTA (Table 2) and this was due to enhanced campaigns to farmers to increase acreage following weather forecast messaging which had indicated that the season was likely to be normal. In Pastoral and Agro-pastoral zones, maize crops were exhibiting moisture stress as a result of early cessation of the rains which happened when the crops were at their most critical stage of grain filling and tussling and therefore there are high chances of crop failure. Crop failure rates for maize are estimated to be 30 percent in Eldama Ravine, 85 percent in Mogotio, 45 percent in Baringo North, 50 percent in Baringo Central-, 65 percent in Baringo South- and 25 percent of irrigated crop while the county average is expected to be 55 percent. However, areas along Tugen hills, Mochongoi and upper parts of Eldama Ravine, the maize crop is relatively in good condition and farmers are likely to realize 50 to 70 percent of their normal yield. There were cases of infestation by field pests, whereby 46 percent of the area planted was affected by Fall army worms reported in all sub counties, and this was aggravated by the dry spells that occurred within the season. The projected yield for maize crop is expected to be 74 percent of the LTA in the upper areas of the county. The area under sorghum production was almost normal compared to the LTA and the projected yield is 67 percent while area put under potatoes was 217 percent of LTA and the projected yield is 88 percent of LTA. The area put under beans production was 114 percent of LTA but the projected yield will be 58 percent of LTA and this was attributed to poor temporal distribution of the rains which led to flower abortion. In a normal year by now most of the maize crop would be in milkygrain filling stage and beans being harvested, this year most of the crops are at vegetative stage and permanent wilting stage. Irrigated crop production Table 3: Irrigated crop Crop Area Long Term 2023 Long rains Long Term Average planted Average (3 season production (3 years) production during the years) (90 kg bagsMT) during Long rains 2023 Long area planted Projected season rains during Long (90 kg bagsMT) season rains season (ha) (ha) Maize 296 173 10,360 4,325 Beans 15 23 300 460 Tomatoes 160 82 4,400 2,050 Water melons 100 45 3,000 1,350 Seed Maize 2,850 2,755 99,750 110,200 The area under maize was above the LTA by 171 percent and this was attributed to the fact that most farmers who can access irrigation water opted to plant maize in the schemes and by pumping water from rivers and lake Baringo (Table 3). This was mainly in three Sub- Counties where there was expansion in acreage under irrigation namely Mogotio, Baringo North and Baringo South. The area under seed maize also increased as more schemes were brought on board in seed production like Loboi, Lorwai and Mosuro irrigation scheme in Baringo South which had continuous supply of water. In other irrigation schemes there was reduced river water flows which was caused by depressed rains hence 45 percent crop failure is likely to be realized. Most of the crops in irrigation schemes are for income especially seed maize, water melons and tomatoes. Men are the income earners from the crops but women and youth managed the crops while marketing was mainly undertaken by women. About 30-50 percent of the potential acreage for irrigation was not utilized due to low water volumes in the rivers. However, it should be noted that less than five percent of the countys population is involved in irrigated agriculture and that maize production from this zone contributes less than 0.5 percent of the countys average maize production in the season under review. 3.1.2 Cereal stocks Table 4: Cereals stocks Commodity Maize Rice Sorghum Green grams Current LTA Current LTA Current LTA Current LTA Households 42,745 290,864 3,947 468 740 620 Traders 78,833 34,928 3720 1,056 2,998 324 264 150 Millers 20,902 8,382 Food 1,242 3 AidNCPB Totals 142,480 334,174 322 1,059 6,945 794 1,004 770 Households The stock held by households is below LTA by 86 percent (Table 4) and this was due to the poor harvest realized last year and over the other preceding years. The bulk of the stock is in Eldama Ravine sub- ccounty at 55 percent whereby few farmers didnt dispose their stock even though the prices were high. National Cereal and Produce Board also did not purchase maize from farmers but with the currently high prices, farmers are releasing their stocks. Most farmers in other areas depleted their stocks as they sold their stock to purchase inputs for the long rains season. In a normal year the stocks are expected to last for five to six months until the next crop harvest but the available stocks may last for less than a month in the Mixed farming livelihood zone while in Pastoral, Agro pastoral and Irrigated livelihood zones, there were no stocks. Traders The traders also had their stock above the LTA by 225 percent due to anticipated crop failure and prevailing high prices, following the poor performance of the long rains season. In the affected areas, price of cereals has gone up thus straining the families economically. About 85 percent of the households were dependent on the markets for their food supply, and this was more pronounced in the Pastoral, Agro-pastoral. The increase in food prices has also influenced the increase in stocks by traders as compared to last year when the prices were relatively normal. Millers The local millers stocks were higher than the LTA by 249 percent and this was attributed to the fact that most households were purchasing maize flour directly from the small millers (Posho Millers). Other factors such as the looming crop failure and high cereal prices also motivated millers and traders to acquire more stocks. Traders and millers had more stocks in the Pastoral, Agro-pastoral and Irrigated livelihood zones as the households rely mostly on markets in accessing food. Post harvesting issues So far, the county is yet to experience food safety issues that include aflatoxin and high moisture content levels since harvesting is still going on. 3.1.3 Livestock production The main livestock species in Baringo County include; cattle, goats, sheep, hived honeybees, poultry and camels. The long rain period in the County is very important for pasture and fodder production, which is much relied by the Pastoral and Agro- pastoral communities as their main source of feed for livestock. Agricultural byproducts, namely, maize stalks, maize cobs, sorghum, millet straw and the legume by products are important component of livestock feed. These by- products are important for their utilization during dry season and hence supplement strategic feed reserves in the ASAL wards of the county Contribution of livestock sector to both food and income in the household food security is as follows (Table 5). Table 5: Contribution of livestock to food and income SNo. Livelihood zone contribution Food income 1. Mixed farming 40 30 2. Irrigated 35 30 3. Agro pastoral 40 40 4. Pastoral 60 80 Impacts of March April May rains on Livestock In Pastoral and Agro pastoral livelihood zones, the rains were poorly distributed which affected negatively pasture and browse recovery. The current forage conditions in these livelihood zones are generally fair to poor, which is not normal at this time of the year. The livestock production potential during the season under review is still sub optimal due to poor rains, livestock diseases, among other factors. Pasture and browse situation Table 6: Forage conditions Pasture Browse Livelih Condition How long to Factors Condition How long to Factors ood last (Months) Limiting last (Months) Limiting zone access access Curr Nor Curr Nor Curr Nor Curr Nor ent mal ent mal ent mal ent mal Pastoral Fair Good 1 3 InsecurityCo Fair Good 2-3 3 InsecurityCo nflict nflict Disease Disease Agro - Fair Good 3 Droughtinsec Fair Good 2-3 3 Droughtinsec Pastoral urity urity Irrigate Fair Good 2 3 DiseaseConfl Fair Good 2-3 3 DiseaseConfl d zone ict ict Mixed Fair Good 2 3 DiseasesCon Fair Good 2-3 3 DiseasesCon farming flict flict Forage conditions for both browse and pastures were in fair to good conditions across all the livelihood zones and this was not normal compared to the previous seasons as it ought to be in good conditions in a typical year (Table 6). The pastures are expected to last for one month in Pastoral and Agro-pastoral livelihood zones while in Irrigated and Mixed farming livelihood zones, the pastures are likely to last for two months. The browse is likely to last for at least two months across the livelihood zones. The forage and browse were not in their normal conditions because of the erratic patterns of the long rains especially in the Pastoral and Agro-pastoral livelihood zones. Forage access was being hampered by insecurity challenges in parts of Baringo North, Tiaty and Baringo South sub counties. Livestock diseases also affected access to pasture resources in certain parts of the county especially in the pastoral livelihood zones. Invassive species particularly in parts of Kollowa, Silale, Tirioko and Ribko wards and parts of Baringo South sub county were observed to be significant and they were responsible for displacing palatable pasture species hence affecting availability. The invasive plants observed were Opuntia ficus-indica, Dodonaea fiscosa, Prosopis juliflora, Acacia reficiens and Panthenium hysterophorus. Crop residues are an important source of livestock feed in the county particularly in the Mixed farming and Agro-pastoral livelihood zones especially during period of harvesting. As farmers embark on harvesting of their crops in the next one month, its expected that the crop residues will come in handy in supplementing livestock feeding. Moreover, livestock are likely to benefit from some of the failed crop especially maize which will be converted to livestock feed. Livestock feed conservation status The number of bales currently being held in the stores across the county is very low compared to their holding capacities and this was caused by the depressed season which could not support pasture production (Table 7). The stocks levels ranged from one to five percent across the sub counties with only Eldama Ravine sub county having substantial stocks of about 17 percent of their storage capacity. Most of the stocks are being held by farmers and their prices were within the normal range. Price stability was attributed to availability of the natural forage which were fairly in good conditions. There are no commercial SMEs engaged in pasture and fodder, but there are institutions doing commercial seed production such as KVDA and RAE TRUST. Table 7: Livestock feed Sub County No. of Storage No. of Average Average Comments E.g Hay Capacity Bales Weight price per percentage held by Stores (Total currently per bale bale farmers and other number of being held (in Kgs) (Kshs.) Institutions bales) Baringo North 14 150,000 2,000 12 - 15 350 80 by farmers, 20 by bales farmer groups Baringo 5 100,000 3,000 12 - 15 350 80 by farmers, 20 by Central farmer groups Baringo South 10 80,000 1,000 12 - 15 350 80 by farmers, 20 by Mogotio 35 200,000 10,000 12 - 15 300 80 by farmers, 20 by Eldama Ravine 50 300,000 50,000 12 - 15 300 80 by farmers, 20 by Tiaty 4 10,000 0 12 - 15 350 No hay at the moment Livestock body condition Table 8: Livestock body condition Livelihood Cattle Sheep Goat Camel Mixed BCS 4 BCS 4 BCS 4 BCS 4 BCS 4-5 BCS 5 - - Irrigated BCS 4 BCS 4 BCS 4 BCS 4 BCS 4-5 BCS 5 - - Agro-pastoral BCS 3-4 BCS 4 BCS 3 BCS 4 BCS 4 BCS 4 - - Pastoral BCS 3-4 BCS 4 BCS 3 BCS 4 BCS 4 BCS 4 BCS 4 BCS 4 NB: BCS 1 Very PoorVery thin, BCS 2Poor, BCS 3Fair, BCS 4 Good, BCS 5 Very Good Livestock body condition for cattle was fair to good in the Pastoral and Agro-pastoral livelihood zones while in Irrigated and Mixed farming livelihood zones, the body condition was good (Table 8). For the small stocks, the livestock body condition was fairly good across the livelihood zones. Compared to the previous assessment of the short rains, there was a notable improvement in livestock body condition following the onset of the long rains which led to improvement in forage and water availability. The livestock body condition may improve further if the county gets more rains in the month of August which will sustain the pastures and browse. Tropical livestock unit (TLU) Table 9: Tropical livestock unit Livelihood zone Poor income households Medium income households Current Normal Current Normal Mixed Farming 2.45 3 5.8 5.5 Irrigated cropping 2.86 3.5 6.2 6.5 Agro-pastoral 3.87 5 7.5 7 Pastoral 4.35 6 9.3 7 Average 3.68 4.5 7.2 9 NB: 1 TLU250kgs In comparison to the previous assessment, the average TLU for both poor and medium income households remained almost the same at 3.6 and 7.2 respectively (Table 9). Compared to the LTA, the TLUs were below normal and this was as a result the cumulative impacts of failed rainfall seasons that were experienced in the county for the last three years. Milk Production and consumption Table 10: Milk production Livelihood Milk Production Milk consumption (Litres) per Prices (Ksh)Litre zone (Litres)Household Household Current LTA Current LTA Current LTA Mixed 3 8 2 5 70 50 Irrigated 2 8 2 5 80 50 Agro-pastoral 1 4 1 3 100 60 Pastoral 1 3 0.5 6 100 60 Milk production across the livelihood zones was less than the LTA although the production trend was improving due to the improving livestock body condition (Table 10). Milk consumption was also less than the LTA due to low production level while milk prices were above the LTA across livelihood zones with the Pastoral and Agro-pastoral livelihood zones having the highest price at Kshs 100litre. Livestock Migration The migration routes were mainly normal for now although the animals that had initially moved out of the county in search of pastures were yet to come back to their usual grazing sites as the forage conditions were yet to achieve full recovery. The current livestock migration routes include Churo-Amaya-Laikipia, Kolloa-Tirioko-West Pokot,Silale-Malaso-Turkana, and Arabal- Akorioan-Sibilo. Cattle were the most affected species in terms of migration especially in the Pastoral livelihood zone whereby they were expected to be within their usual grazing sites but most of them were yet to come back. Projected livestock migration If the June-July-August (JJA) does not perform well, then escalation of livestock movement both within and outside the county is likely to pick up with more animals moving to Laikipia, West Pokot and Turkana counties. Livestock diseases and mortalities Contiguous Caprine Pleuro Pneumonia (CCPP), Foot and Mouth disease (FMD), Lumpy skin disease (LSD), Mange, Sheepgoat pox and new Newcastle in poultry were the main livestock diseases prevailing in the county (Table 11) while livestock mortality rates were normal at two Table 11: Livestock diseases Sub- Disease Area Reported Livestock Livestock Measures county lost taken(Vaccinations) Baringo CCPP Endemic Goats No vaccinations Central livestock LSD Salawa, Kaptara Cattle Vaccinations deaths FMD Kapkelelwa Cattle No action reported Tiaty CCPP Sub-county wise Goats NR Ring vaccination done PPR Sub-county wise Sheep and NR Ring vaccination done goats Eldama FMD Koibatek, Cattle Suspected 7,000 vaccinated Ravine LembusPekerra south sheep pox sheep CCPP Kimorok Goats 30 cases No vaccination done North sheep pox sheep CCPP Kimorok Goats 30 affected No vaccination done Rabies All wards dogs No deaths 200 vaccinated ECF Kabartonjo, Saimo- Cattle No deaths 60 vaccinated Kipsaraman Helminths Saimosoi Cattle, No deaths 22,000 livestock dewormed sheep, goats Birth rate The general birth rates declined slightly during the period under review across all the livelihood zones as the forage conditions were not in good conditions during the conception period. The poor forage conditions had affected the body condition hence affecting the birth rates. Water for Livestock The main water sources for livestock were pansdams, borehole, rivers and springs across the various livelihood zones (Table 12). The average return distances from the water sources was normal in Mixed farming and Irrigated cropping livelihood zones while in the Pastoral and Agro- pastoral livelihood zones, the return distances were slightly above the LTA. The increased return distances in the Pastoral and Agro-pastoral livelihood zones was attributed to decline in the available water due to poor recharge and high evaporation of surface-based water sources due to the prevailing high temperatures. Table 12: Livestock water Livelihood Sources Return average Expected duration to last zone distances (Km) Current Normal Current Normal Current Normal Mixed Rivers, springs, Streams, Rivers, 1-2 2 1 month Throughout Farming piped water, springs, piped boreholes, water, boreholes, Irrigated Rivers, shallow Rivers, shallow 1-2 2 1 month Throughout cropping wells and springs, wells and springs. bore holes Agro- Water pans, Streams, water pans, 6-10 4-6 1 month 3 months pastoral Boreholes, Boreholes traditional river wells Pastoral Bore-holes, water Water-pans, Bore- 7-10 4-7 1 month 3 months pans, traditional holes, rivers river wells Livestock watering frequency In terms of watering frequency, it was normal in the Mixed farming and Irrigated cropping livelihood zones while in the Pastoral and Agro-pastoral zones, the watering frequencies was less than LTA (Table 13). Table 13: Watering frequency Livelihood Cattle Camels Goats Sheep Mixed 7 7 NA NA 7 7 7 7 Irrigated 7 7 NA NA 7 7 7 7 Agro- 4 7 5 7 4 7 4 7 pastoral Pastoral 4 7 5 7 4 7 4 7 3.1.4 Impacts on availability The long rains season is critical in food security in the county as it provides over 80 percent of the food requirements for its residents. Food availability is expected to stabilize in the next one month due to the expected crop harvest although the county will still experience some food deficit due to crop failures that were occasioned by poor rainfall distribution. Livestock productivity is also on a recovery path and therefore milk production is expected to contribute to food availability although production levels are not yet within the normal level, implying that milk consumption deficit will still continue to be felt in the next 1-2 months. Cereal stocks were still very low compared to LTA but this is expected to change in the next 1-2 months as households embark on harvesting of various crops in the county, a factor that is likely to enhance food consumption at the households. 3.2 Market operations Main livestock and food markets include Kipsaraman, Barwessa, Loruk and Kinyach in Baringo North sub county, Kolloa, Nginyang, Tangulbei and Amaya in Tiaty East and West sub counties, Marigat and Kabel in Baringo South sub county, Majimoto and Emining in Mogotio sub county, Iloti, Kapchorua and Kapcholoi in Eldama Ravine sub county. All the markets were operational as they were well stocked with various commodities although cereal prices including maize were still very high compared to LTA. On the other hand, livestock prices were on an improving trend due to the ongoing recovery in livestock body condition for all species. The demand for livestock animals was higher than the supply as most farmers opted to keep their animals for fattening and reproduction following an improvement in forage conditions. There were less buyers for livestock in feeder markets found within Tiaty areas due to security tensions, a factor that was affecting supply of animals in major livestock markets such as Nginyang. As for the food commodities, most of the maize was coming from Uganda though some few stocks had started coming from neighboring counties such as Uasin Gishu, a factor that had started pushing down maize prices. The markets were well supplied with leafy vegetables, fruits and Irish potatoes whose prices had significantly gone down compared to the previous assessment and were being sourced from within the county. 3.2.1 Market prices Maize prices Maize prices did undergo a significant increment during the period under review, rising by 16 percent from March when the average price was at Kshs 94kg to Kshs 109kg by June (Figure 3). By June, the prices were higher than the short-term average (STA) at this time of the year by 77 percent and were falling outside the seasonal range. The increase in maize prices was attributed to diminished stocks at household level in all livelihood zones due to poor harvests and increased cost of production. Most households were depending on retailers for the maize which was being sourced from the neighbouring counties. However, by July, the maize prices declined by 11 percent compared to June and this was attributed to the ongoing maize harvest both within the county and in the neighbouring counties and this trend may continue for the next two months. Pastoral livelihood zone recorded the highest average price of Ksh. 100 per kg while irrigated livelihood zone recorded the lowest at Ksh.70 per kg Maize Prices -July 2023 120.00 100.00 S 80.00 ( 60.00 c ir 40.00 e 20.00 STA Upper Limit 2023 Lower Limit Figure 3: Maize prices Goat prices During the period under review, there was a consistent goat price increment of 14 percent from an average of Kshs 2,565 in March to Kshs 2,920 in May (Figure 4). However, by June, there was a slight decline in the price by two percent compared to the previous month and was fetching at Ksh.2,869 per head and rose slightly to Kshs 2,950 by July which was above STA by 13 percent. The prices were highest in Irrigated livelihood zone at Ksh. 3,767 and lowest in Agro-pastoral livelihood zone at Ksh.2,000. The low prices in the Agropastoral livelihood zone was attributed to the frequent insecurity situations that has affected market operations. The improving price trend was attributed to improving body conditions in the county. Moreover, farmers were not under any pressure to sale their animals as they opted to keep them for fattening and restocking due to availability of sufficient browse and livestock water Goat Prices -July 2023 ) 3000 K 2500 e c 2000 G 1000 STA Lower Limit 2023 Upper llimit Figure 4: Goat prices 3.2.2 Terms of trade The terms of trade (ToT) were below the LTA and falling outside the seasonal range for the entire assessment period, a factor that was contributed by high maize prices. As from March to May, there was some marginal improvement in the terms of trade due to the improvement in goat prices although these gains were lost in June as a result of increment in maize prices and a slight decline in goat prices. By July, terms of trade were at 30.7 which was an increase of 16 percent in comparison to the previous month (Figure 5). This has been attributed to stable goat prices and decreasing maize prices. The current terms of trade were below the long-term average by 35 percent. Irrigated cropping livelihood zone had the highest terms of trade of 43 while Agro-pastoral livelihood zone had the least at 22.2. The purchasing power was expected to continue improving as the maize prices were anticipated to decline due to the ongoing harvesting in the county and neighbouring Terms of Trade -July 2023 o r 50 t ht40 f o 0 s g Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec STA 2023 52 Upper Limit Figure 5: Terms of trade 3.2.3 Income sources The main sources of cash income varied across the livelihood zones key among them being livestock production, cash crop production, casual waged labour among others as illustrated in Table 14. Charcoal production was also on the rise mostly in the Pastoral and Agro-Pastoral livelihood zones. In the Irrigated livelihood zone, most of the crops were grown as cash crops which served as the main source of income Table 14: Income sources Sources of Income Contribution to Cash Income per Livelihood Zone () Pastoral Agro-Pastoral Irrigated Mixed Farming Livestock Production 88 50 5 23 Food Crop Production - 4 5 5 Cash crop production -- - 59 30 Small Business 1 4 5 7 Casual Waged Labour 1 15 10 20 Formal Waged Labour 1 5 4 5 Poultry Production 2 5 3 1 Fishing - 10 4 - 3.2.4 Water access and availability Major water sources The main sources of water for both livestock and domestic use include; rivers, water pans, dams, lakes, streams, protected shallow wells, springs, swamps, boreholes and traditional river wells (Table 15). Normally, water sources are mainly concentrated in Mixed farming livelihood zones where the potential is high and rainfall amounts are higher as compared to Pastoral and Agro- pastoral livelihood zones which are rocky and poorly served by rivers. Generally, Mixed farming and Irrigated cropping livelihood zone communities have more access to water than in Pastoral livelihood zones. Several open water sources were operating below their normal capacities whereby river Nginyang., Endao, Wasseges, Kakabul among others were almost dry. Water pans in Pastoral and Agro-Pastoral livelihood areas of Tiaty East, Tiaty West and Baringo North sub counties were recharged to between 30-40 percent of their normal capacity as compared to 80-90 normally. In isolated cases, Kapkchelukuny water pans in Mogotio Sub-county were recharged close to their normal capacities The available water is likely to last for one to two months in Pastoral areas while in Irrigated cropping and Mixed farming livelihood zones, water pans were recharged up to at least 50 percent of their normal capacity was expected to last for two to three months. The status of water levels in springs, rivers and water pans in all livelihood zones was unstable. Currently 80 percent of the boreholes were operational across all livelihood zones; however, some few boreholes are not operational due to normal electromechanical break downs. Table 15: Water sources Ward Water No. of Normal No. of Projected Normal of full Livelihood Source Operational Current Duration Duration Capacity zone (Three (3) Operational (Operational that water Recharged major Sources Sources) last in by the Rains sources) months Pastoral 1. Bore 96 85 Over 6 Months Over 6 stable 2.Water 63 56 1 2 Months 3 4 30 - 40 3.Springs 10 10 1 - 2 Months 3 4 20 - 30 Agro - 1. Bore 56 52 Over 6 Months Over 6 stable 2. Water 23 19 1 2 Months 3 4 20 - 30 3. Springs 18 18 1-2Months Over 3 10 - 20 Mixed 1. Bore 139 116 Over 6 Months Over 6 stable 2. Springs 135 135 Over 3 Months Over 6 40 - 50 3.Rivers 6 6 Over 3 Months 4 -5 40 - 50 Irrigated 1. Rivers 6 6 3months Over 6 20 -30 2.Shallow 8 3 3-4months Over 6 Reducing Discharge Wells months 3. Swamps 3 3 Over 3 Months stable Distance to water sources and waiting time The average distances to domestic water sources were stable at 3.5 to 4.5 km in Pastoral and Agro pastoral livelihood zones, as compared to the normal (Table 16). The distances were normal at 0.5 -1.5 km in Mixed farming and Irrigated farming zones with minimal increasing trends. The duration of time spent queuing for water is projected to increase in Pastoral and Agro-pastoral livelihood zones if the situation will not improve due to high temperatures prevailing at the moment. The waiting time at the source in Mixed farming livelihood zone was between 1 - 3 minutes which is above normal while in Pastoral and Agro- pastoral areas it was between 3-5 minutes. Cost of water and Consumption Water was free at open water sources while the cost of water at developed water sources was generally stable at ksh.3-5 across all livelihoods. Water consumption per person per day was normal at 20 25 litres per person per day in Mixed farming and Irrigated cropping livelihood zone and 12-15 litres in Agro-pastoral and Pastoral livelihood zone compared to normal. About 10 20 percent of households in Pastoral and Agro Pastoral livelihood Zones reported persistence of water related diseases like typhoid, amoeba, diarrhea and malaria Table 16: Water distances, cost, time and consumption Ward Return Distance to Cost of Water at Waiting Time at Average Water livelihood Water for Domestic Source (Kshs. Per Water Source Consumption zone Use (Km) 20litres) (Minutes) (Litrespersonday) Normal Current Normal Current Normal Current Normal Current Pastoral 3.5 4.5 3.5 - .4.5 3 - 5 3 - 5 3 - 5 3-5 12- 15 12-15 Agro 3 3.5 3 3.5 3 - 5 3 - 5 3 - 5 3-5 12 - 55 11-15 Mixed 0.5 1.5 0.5 1.5 3 5 3 5 2 - 3 2-3 15 - 20 20-25 Irrigated 0.5 - 1.5 0.5 1.5 3 - 5 3 - 5 1 - 2 1 - 2 15 - 20 20-25 3.2.5 Food consumption Food consumption score 120.0 Food consumption score 100.0 80.0 40.0 20.0 a a o a a o a a o a a o a a o P P r P P r P P r P P r P P r r g A d e ta r g A d e ta r g A d e ta r g A d e ta r g A d e ta g g g g g ir ir ir ir ir r r r r r I I I I I Acceptable Borderline Poor Figure 6: Food consumption score During the season under review, a significant proportion of households within the Pastoral livelihood zone did not have acceptable food consumption score whose score was between 31-40 percent (Figure 6). This was attributed to food consumption gaps that were prevalent in this zone following failed rainfall seasons in the last three years which affected livestock production, a sector that is a key source of food and income. In the Agro-pastoral and Irrigated livelihood zone, most of the households had acceptable food consumption score. 3.2.6 Coping strategy Coping strategy index (CSI) Irrigated Agro pastoral Pastoral Figure 7:CSI During the reporting period, households in Agro-pastoral and Pastoral livelihood zones were adopting more coping strategies as a way of adjusting to food consumption gaps that were being experienced by household members (Figure 7). This was due to the cumulative impacts of the previous failed rains which affected both food and livestock production. Among the strategies that were being applied include skipping of meals, reduced meal portions, consuming less preferred food stuff among others. 3.3 Utilization 3.3.1Morbidity and mortality patterns Upper Respiratory Tract infection (URTI) Morbidity of Underfive years continued to be the leading cause of morbidity in county 69665 compared to the previous assessment. The number of children seen with upper 30000 21407 respiratory tract 20000 14712 infection in 2022 was 10000 higher compared to the 0 other years same period. URTI Diarrhoea Malaria The chart (Figure 8) shows that 2023 recorded higher Figure 8: Morbidity in under five morbidity cases compared to 2022 among under five population. Morbidity for General Population Morbidity in the general Morbidity for Genelal population population showed a higher caseload and had the same trend as in the children under the age 60000 of five years (Figure 9). 40000 The higher number of 20000 cases of upper 0 respiratory infections URTI Diarrhoea Malaria General population low immunity as well as the onset of the cold season in the high lands. Figure 9: Morbidity in general population Smart survey Morbidity patterns-Tiaty Disease incidence- Baringo 80.0 NS and South 69.1 70.0 90.0 80.7 60.0 80.0 50.0 70.0 40.0 30.3 50.0 30.0 22.5 40.0 24.7 20.0 13.5 23 00 .. 00 16.0 12.6 6.7 10.0 0.6 4.5 1 00 .. 00 0.0 Figure 10: Morbidity-SMART SURVEY Morbidity based on SMART survey follows the same trends as the data from KDHIS (Figure 10). 3.3.2 Immunization and Vitamin A supplementation Immunization Imunization Coverge Measles Rubella 1 OPV 3 Opv 1 72 74 76 78 80 82 84 86 88 2022 2023 Figure 11: Immunization Data from DHIS indicate that the proportion of children who were fully immunized in 2023 was above the national target of 80 percent as compared to 2022 same period (Figure 11). The data showed that all antigens were above the acceptable level of 80 percent coverage; this could be attributed to increase in intergraded Health and Nutrition outreaches in 2023 Vitamin A supplementation Vitamin A supplementation Baringo County 6 to 11Mths 12 TO 59 MONTHS 6 TO 59 Momths Figure 12: Vitamin A supplementation There has been an increase in Vitamin A supplementation and immunization coverage this year 2023, as compared to 2022 and 2021 (Figure 12). This increase could be attribute to increase in the number of outreaches supported by partners and Baringo county Government, and also continued support of Malezi Bora by partners. According to SMART Survey, Vitamin A coverage for children aged 6 11 months stood at 61.4 percent in Tiaty East and Tiaty West while it was 87 percent in Baringo North and Baringo South respectively (Smart Survey, 2023). Outpatient Therapeutic Feeding (OTP) Out-patient Feeding Program Baringo Trends of SFP program Baringo County 2023 County 2022 1400 120 M A1000 2021 1200 100 R 1000 O800 2020 800 P LTM (5-yr average) 600 P600 40 T 400 200 20 200 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun 2020 LTA Figure 13: OTPSFP The above chart (Figure 13) indicated that children attending OTP and SFP increased in the current year as compared to the same period last year 2022. This could be attributed to access to SFP and OPT programs through health and nutrition integrated Outreaches and availability of nutrition commodities. 3.3.3 Nutrition status Underweight Underweight trends Jan -June (2020 2023) 25 who were underweight was above the long-term 18.9 18.8 19.2 20 average with the highest proportion of 19.2 15 12.1 13.6 12.9 percent compared to 8.2 percent in 2022 as seen 10 10.05 10.1 8.9 in the chart (Figure 14) 7.25 7.03 6.2 and this could be attributed to cumulative decline in nutrition Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun status due to the decreased availability of milk and increase of Figure 14: Underweight food prices over the last three years. Nutrition status based on GAM and SAM Nutrition status who were found 26.8 26.4 25 malnourished based on 23.2 23.3 23.2 the global acute malnutrition (GAM) reduced from 26.4 percent in 2022 to 23.3 percent in 2023, this 5 5.3 3.5 4 4 3.5 3.9 4 intervention put in place 0 by Baringo County 2016 2017 2018 2019 2021 2022 2023 Government, - Figure 15: GAMSAM GAM SAM Department of Health with support from partners (Figure 15). However, GAM rates still remained high at Critical phase Children at risk of malnutrition Proportion of Children at risk of malnutrition -July 2023 f o 25.0 lihit c fir n on la 10.0 o 5.0 LTA upper Limit 2023 lower limit Figure 16: Nutrition status by MUAC The proportion of children sampled who were at the risk of malnutrition during the month of July was 20.19 percent (Figure 16). This was a decrease as compared to the previous month at 21.8. The current proportion was above the LTA by 30 percent. The relative improvement in the nutrition status across all livelihood zones was contributed by the ongoing nutrition interventions in Baringo North, Tiaty East, Tiaty West and Baringo South sub counties. The situation was expected to continue improving with the upscaling of the nutrition outreaches in the county. 3.3.4 Sanitation and Hygiene Sources Of Water In Baringo County Pans and Dams 11 Lakes 12 Traditional River 25 Rivers 13 Boreholes 15 Springs 7 Shallow Wells 2 Figure 17: Water sources According to the smart survey findings, the main water sources in Tiaty East, Tiaty West, Baringo North and Baringo South sub counties were traditional river wells at 25 percent followed by boreholes at 15 percent (Figure 17). Hand washing practices According to the smart survey findings, over 90 percent of the household wash hands before eating with Tiaty leading at 97.7 percent (Figure 18). This was followed by washing hands after visiting toiled at 90.2 percent in Baringo North and South sub counties while Tiaty was at 37.7 percent. These habits have been sustained after COVID 19 pandemic. About 22 percent of the respondents washed hands with soap and water while 51.6 percent washed hands with water only. Compared to the previous assessment, there was a notable improvement in hand washing practices. Tiaty East and Baringo Figure 18: Hand washing Latrine coverage Table 17: Latrine coverage Sub County Latrine coverage Livelihood zone July -Dec 2022 July to December 2023 Open defecation Coverage Coverage (bushes) () Eldama Ravine 78 90 3 Baringo Central 47 71 7 Baringo South 46 48 24 Mogotio 4 5 78 8 Baringo North 42 46 23 Tiaty West 3.14 8 93 Tiaty East 3.14 8 88 Tiaty sub counties had the lowest latrine coverage and the highest open defecation in the County although there was an improvement when compared to the last smart survey done in 2022 (Table 17). The low coverage in Tiaty was mainly attributed to the cultural practices and nomadic lifestyle of the community and this has a negative impact on nutritional status due to possibility of upsurge of water related diseases that may affect food utilization 3.4 Food security trends Table 18: Key food security trends Indicator Short rains assessment, Long rains assessment, July, 2023 January, 2023 of maize stocks held by 68 15 households Livestock body condition Agro-pastoral Poor Agro-pastoral Fair (Cattle) Irrigated Fair Irrigated cropping Good Mixed Good-Fair Mixed Farming Good Pastoral-all Poor Pastoral-all species Fair Water consumption (litres Agro-pastoral 10-15 Agro-pastoral 11-15 per person per day Irrigated 15-20 Irrigated cropping 20-25 Mixed 15-20 Mixed Farming 20-25 Pastoral-all 5-10 Pastoral-all species 12-15 Price of maize (per kg) 90 96 Price of goat 2,446 2,950 Distance to grazing Agro-pastoral 7-13 Agro-pastoral 6-10 Irrigated 1-3 Irrigated cropping 1-2 Mixed 1-3 Mixed Farming 1-2 Pastoral-all 7-13 Pastoral-all species 7-10 Terms of trade 31 Coping strategy index County-17 County-14 Agro-Pastoral-25.2 Agro-Pastoral-17 Pastoral-17.8 Pastoral-15 Irrigated Cropping-3.4 Irrigated Cropping-4 Food consumption score Acceptable 49 Acceptable 50 Borderline 38 Borderline 40 Poor 13 Poor 10 3.5 Education 3.5.1 Enrolment Table 19: Enrolment Term I 2023 Term II 2023 Indicate Increase () Enrollment Boys Girls Total Boys Girls Total Decrease (-) ECD 22,215 24,303 46,518 22,144 24,261 46,411 -107 Primary 66,476 61,527 128,003 66,490 61,442 127,861 -142 Junior 8,109 7,493 15,602 8,109 7,493 15,602 0 Secondary Senior 27,075 26,786 53,861 27,688 26,689 54,384 523 secondary Baringo comprises of 1,119 ECDE centers with an enrolment of 46,411 children with boys comprising of 22,144 and girls 24,267 in the current term (Table 19). Compared to the previous term, the enrolment was at 46,518 comprising of 22,215 boys and 24,303 girls. The decline (0.2 percent) in enrolment at ECDE level was attributed to delay in school meals Program supply, insecurity challenges in some parts of Baringo South, Tiaty and Baringo North sub counties, and transfer of pupils to other schools. There were 740 primary schools with a population of 127,861 pupils with boys comprising of 66,419 and girls 61,442 compared to the previous term of 128,003 with boys being 66,476 and girls at 61,527. The decline (0.1 percent) in enrolment was attributed to delayed school meals program, interintra county transfers, teen pregnancies, child labor among other reasons. In secondary schools, there were 189 schools with a combined enrolment of 54,384 students with boys being 27,688 and girls at 26,689 in the current term compared to the previous term of 53,861 with boys being 27,075 and girls at 26,786. The positive deviation in enrolment (one percent) was attributed to the 100 percent transition government policy, new admissions, availability of school meals programs, availability of bursaries and scholarships. Enrolment in Junior secondary schools was stable in comparison to the previous term. There were cases of dropouts in ECDE whereby a total of 107 children (71 boys and 36 girls) dropped out due to nomadism. In primary schools, a total of 142 students (57 boys and 85 girls) dropped out which was attributed to psychological trauma, child labour, insecurityviolence, nomadism, chronic illness, truancy and teen pregnancies. Whereas there was an increase in enrollment in secondary schools, some schools in Tiaty East, Tiaty West, Baringo South and Baringo North sub counties experienced dropout and absenteeism due to lack of school fees, insecurities, pregnanciesearly marriage, transfers, lack of school fees, indulgence into boda boda business among other reasons. Note: There are 534 public Junior Secondary School JSS domiciled in primary schools totaling with total enrolment of 15,602 comprising of 8,109 boys and 7,493 girls. 3.5.2 Water availability in schools during the season The main water sources for schools in the county were boreholes, rivers, water bowsers, rain water harvesting and water pans. The number of schools with no access to safe water sources were 620 ECDE centers, 486 primary schools and 35 secondary schools. There were 678 ECDE, 468 primary schools 154 secondary schools with functional rain-water harvesting infrastructure and some of them applied chlorine to treat water. 3.5.3 Effect of the season on school infrastructure There was no closure of schools due to the effects of the long rains and none of the school infrastructure was damaged during the review period. None of the schools was hosting any IDP camps during the season under review. 3.5.4 Inter sector links During the season under review, a number of students were affected by upper respiratory infections and were treated by health personnel. The students also benefitted from deworming and vitamin A supplementation from the Ministry of health. The number of schools with inadequate functional latrines were 30 ECDE, 30 primary schools and five secondary schools and number of schools with inadequate or no hand-washing facilities were 30 ECDE, 30 primary schools and three secondary schools. Girls received sanitary kits during the second term which were issued by the Government. There were cases of child labour prevalent among the vulnerable groups and occasional cases of sexual exploitation and gender-based violence. 3.6 Child protection Baringo is one of the counties that experienced prolonged drought. As a measure to ensure the protection and response to child protection issues during emergencies questionnaires were provided to collect qualitative data on the effects of drought to children and the kind of child protection issues that emerged as a result of the drought. The data was collected by Child Protection Volunteers for the two days of field assessment the CPVs covered five out of the seven sub counties. They were able to cover Baringo North, Marigat, Tiaty East, Mogotio and Baringo Central to establishing the effects of drought to children and the child protection concerns that emerged. Child migration Out of one hundred and seventy (170) persons interviewed; 60 reported migration due to insecurity while 30and 10 reported famine and poverty. The children in this category moved out of Baringo County with their parents due sever consequence of drought. Most children who migrated from the county went to the following counties; Nakuru, Laikipia, Uasin gishu, Nairobi Family separation When analysis was done for status of separated children, 65 of the respondents are of the opinion that children are separated from their parent due to lack of food and other basic needs. 20 of the respondent reported separation necessitated by abuses and harsh environment at home. Child marriage and lack of parental support has been indicated by 15 by those who were interviewed. However, no cases of refugee children were reported Violence against children, GBV Due to drought there were cases of violence against children that were reported that included Sexual violence, Neglect cases, psychosocial violence, Child trafficking, corporal punishment and child labor.; Incidences of children and women engaging in transactional sex for commodities like food, sanitary pads and water was reported by 48 of the respondent. Sub counties affected by transactional sex of children and women were; Marigat, Mogotio, Baringo Central, Baringo North. Child marriage The drought situation has contributed to incidence of child marriage. Besides challenges associated with drought, some of the factors that aggravated child marriage are; neglect by parents and caregivers, orphan hood, poverty, teenage pregnancies that forced most of the girls to in fall into marriage. In all the five sub-counties where the survey took place, child marriage was reported Teenage pregnancies Teenage pregnancies incidences were also cited in the data collection exercise. 52 girls 10-14 years and 946 girls 15-19 years have been recorded as teenage pregnancy cases. Girls would lack provision of basic needs and engage in sex to obtain essential items like pads, sex for food and money. Other reasons cited was poverty, school dropout that was worsened by drought and girls engaging in unprotected sex. All the five sub-counties reported teenage pregnancies which has been associated with peer pressure, poverty and absence of parental guidance. Children with disability Associated with taboo and other cultural stigmatization, Parents have a tendency of hiding children with disability making it difficult to provide for interventions for them. These children have difficulties in interacting and socializing with other children. Special needs children requiring specialized care have been reported.in all the sub-counties. They experience neglect, stigma and lack of education. 4.0 FOOD SECURITY PROGNOSIS 4.1 Prognosis assumptions According to the County Meteorological department, the June-July-August (JJA) rains will be near normal with the peak being experienced in August According to FEWSNET forecast, there is a possibility of above average October to December short rains in the county which may result to isolated incidents in flood prone areas. Market prices for livestock are expected to improve due to the expected improvement in livestock body condition while cereal market is likely to come down due to the expected crop harvest both within and outside the county. Forage conditions are expected to improve fairly as a result of the expected JJA rains. Additional feed supplements are likely to be realized from crop residues of the harvested and failed crops in the Agro-pastoral and Mixed farming livelihood zones Livestock body condition for cattle and other livestock species will stabilize due to the expected stability in forage conditions across livelihood zones Water access and availability will continue to be below normal but may improve towards the end of August if the JJA rains performs well. Household food stocks will improve fairly in the Mixed farming, Irrigated Cropping and parts of Agro-pastoral livelihood as farmers are expected to have a modest crop harvest. Resource based conflict will be minimal for the next three months The country will have political stability that enhances limited disruption of movement of goods and services. 4.2 Food security outlook for the next six months August-September-October Food consumption gaps are expected to decline particularly in the Mixed farming, Irrigated cropping and parts of Agro-pastoral livelihood zones where farmers are likely to have modest crop harvest. In the Pastoral livelihood zone, access to cereals will improve due to the expected price reduction of cereals. On the other hand, range land conditions are expected to remain fair to good hence resulting in improved pastures and browse availability. Moreover, livestock will greatly benefit from crop residues resulting from the harvested crops and the failed crops hence resulting in improved livestock productivity especially in the Mixed farming, Irrigated cropping and parts of Agro-pastoral livelihood zones. There will be marginal improvement in milk production which might see milk prices declining slightly. Household herd size will remain the same as birth rates are not expected to change much. Market operations are expected to remain normal with livestock prices improving gradually while cereal prices will decline slightly following the expected completion of crop harvest. Terms of trade are therefore expected to improve mostly for the Pastoral households. Water access and availability will remain fair as the JJA rains are expected to provide limited recharge to water sources. The trekking distances to water points are therefore expected to remain within the seasonal range while waiting time at water sources will remain normal. Water consumption at the household level will remain normal to above normal across all livelihood zones while cost of water will remain normal. Water quality will remain fair due to the expected limited recharge of water sources by the JJA rains. Dietary diversity is expected to improve due to readily available green vegetables and fruits which are mostly being sourced from within the county. In the Pastoral areas, access to a variety of food stuff including vegetables and fruits will improve due to the expected drop in their market prices. Households are expected to reduce adoption of severe coping strategies as a means of accessing food due to the expected marginal improvement in food availability and reduced cereal prices. Malnutrition cases are expected to remain slightly above normal but stable due to the ongoing interventions. November-December-January The short rains season of October-December are expected to compliment the food security gains made from the long rains. Trekking distances to watering points for both humans and livestock are expected to stabilize and remain within the seasonal range. Forage conditions are most likely to remain fairly stable, a factor that is likely to sustain livestock productivity in terms of body condition, carcass weight, milk production among others. Limited recharge of rivers will likely take place hence benefitting irrigated agriculture to some extent. Market operations are expected to remain normal with stability of food commodity prices being experienced. Livestock prices are expected to be normal to above normal due to the expected improvement in livestock body condition. Food consumption will be much better due to availability of cereal and pulses stocks at the household level. In the Pastoral zone, its expected that the prices of food commodities will have come down and therefore access to food items in the markets will improve due to the enhanced terms of trade. Malnutrition cases are expected to decline marginally due to the impact of having consumed milk and other food stuffs. 5.0 CONCLUSSIONS AND RECCOMENDATIONS 5.1 Conclusions 5.1.1 Phase classification The overall county IPC phase was in phase two (Stressed). Pastoral livelihood zone was in phase three while Agro-pastoral livelihood zone was in phase two (Stressed). The Irrigated livelihood zone was in phase one (NoneMinimal). 5.1.2 Summary of findings The county had acceptable food consumption score at 38 percent, although the Pastoral livelihood zone had the highest proportion of households not having acceptable food consumption during the period under review with eight percent and 57 percent of the sampled households having poor and borderline food consumption score by June. On consumption based coping strategies (rCSI), about 39 percent, 24 percent and 37 percent of the sampled households were applying none, stressed and crisis strategies respectively by June. On livelihood coping, about zero, 21, 32 and 46 percent of the sampled households in June had emergency, stressed, crisis and no coping strategies. The proportion of children at risk of malnutrition was 22 percent by June which was above LTA by 25 5.1.3 Sub County ranking Sub County Rank (Worst to Main food security threatContributing factors best) Tiaty (East and West) 1 High malnutrition, Invasive species, Low latrine Livestock diseases, coverage, PPR, Poor rainfall Poor dietary, distribution, High food prices, insecurity, Less vibrant livestock feeder markets Baringo North 2 Insecurity, Poor rainfall Crop failure, distribution, Crop paste High food prices, diseases, Wrong choice of crop enterprises, Livestock Diseases Mogotio 3 Crop failure, Poor rainfall distribution, Reduced river flows Baringo South 4 Poor rainfall Invasive species distribution, (Prosopis juliflora), Insecurity Water- borne diseases Baringo Central 5 Better rains, Good crop condition Eldama Ravine 6 Better Rains, Good crop condition 5.2 Ongoing interventions 5.2.1 Food interventions Through the office of the County Commissioner, the County received a total 24,080 bags of rice (50kg) and 14,000 bags of beans (50kg) for the period of March-June which was distributed to the vulnerable populations in all the sub counties except Ravine. Kenya Red cross society distributed relief food to 2,000 households in Saimo Soi, Bartabwa, Kolowa, Loyamorok, and Silale areas. NDMA distributed about 2000 food hampers in June with assorted food stuff that comprised of uji mix, maize flour, green grams, rice, cooking fat and salt. World Food Program is targeting 4,828 Households in Tiaty, Baringo North, Mogotio, Baringo South and Baringo Central sub counties with a cash transfer program (Phase two). Each household will receive KSh 11,200. The program is an extension of cash transfer that targeted 2,778 households in phase one. The program runs from March to August 2023. About 2,778 households are targeted under the 1st phase received 11,200 during the month (totaling to KSh. 31,113,600 while the 2,050 are still on pipeline. Large Cash Transfer project for Livelihood recovery by Give Directly partner ongoing in Sabor and Endao sub locations. Once recruitment is accomplished then each household will receive KSh. 110,000 disbursed in 3 tranches of KSh. 20,000, 45,000, 45,000. 5.2.2 None food interventions Sub Intervention Ward No. of Implemente Impacts in Cost Time County beneficiari rs terms of food Frame es security Countywi Resilient Saimo Soi, 9,725 County Restoration 67 M Novembe de building Bartabwa Government and r 2020- program to Sacho, , of Baringo, rehabilitation Decembe households ChuroAma ELRP of livelihoods r 2024 ya, , destroyed by Mochongoi, DL Kolowa, Ilchamus Kisanana ALL Affruitation ALL 20000 County Increased 30 2022- program Government area under million 2023 of Baringo fruits cover environmenta l conservation and food security Baringo Promotion of Kapropita, 10000 KCSAP Improved 300m 2018- Central, climate smart Tenges, adaptation to Sept Mogotio, Agriculture Mogotio, climate 2023 Eldama interventions Emining, change Ravine Koibatek, L.Perkerra ALL Agrinutrition ALL 12000 DRLSP, Improve 100 July support FAO, household Million 2022- County food security Decembe Government r 2023 ALL Promotion of Marigat, 25 County Improve 10 2023- farmer service Mogotio, Government access to Million 2024 centres Kabarnet, and WFP inputs by Kabartonjo, farmers and Eldama promote Ravine enterpreneurs ALL Nutrition ALL 25,000 WFP, SHA, Increased 300 M 2020- Sensitive and County household 2024 Food Government food nutrition Utilization of Baringo, and stability initiatives DRLSP, in food KCSAP, security National Government All sub- Capacity 1,000HH BCG(MOA Well Infirmed 1M Througho counties building of LF) staff and ut Farmers and farmers for staff. best practices Mogotio Construction 200HH BCGDRLS Improved 5M MARCH- of livestock P pasture SEPT feed store conservation 2023 Water Institutions 10 BCG, 50,000 On On going trucking Institutions going BHs 380HH BCG, NG, 10M On On going rehabilitation KRCS, going PVC Tanks 28 NDMA 0.45M Partially Installations SHA Save Partially Complete Pre- the Children Comple positioning te Construction 1560HH BCG, NG, 46M 1year On going of New water Projects Rehabilitation 2320 HH BCG, NG, 25 M 1 Year On going of BHs RCS, WV Drilling and 2620 HH BCG, NG, 20M 1 Year On going Equipping of Capacity 2130 HH BCG, NG, 4.5M 1 Year On going building on RCS, WV, Sustainable UNCEF, water management Sustain Mass 150 3.5M screening and facilities in referrals the County Provision of County 28M supplements Integrated 120 hot 2.0M KSH outreach spots and 1,873,2 services hard to 50 reach sites in 7 sub SMART County 5.0 M MOH, Survey UNICE North, provide fire primary i.e one y East , M meals in ogotio, schools Baringo Purchase of 29 primary Ministry of 3 months Central food stuff schools education i. e one from nearby term counties of Ministry of Uasin gishu interior and Koibatek, and Nakuru, national Baringo coordination Central Provision of 192 relief food by primary Education national, schools partners eg county red cross and education partners North, provide fire primary i.e. one y East , meals in Mogotio, schools Child protection Baringo 10,000 DCS Quarterly North managem County Marigat 9,000 DCS Quarterly Tiaty East 9,000 DCS Quarterly Mogotio 8,500 DCS Quarterly Baringo 12,000 DCS Quarterly Central County Koibatek 8,000 DCS Tiaty 8,000 DCS Quarterly 5.3. Recommended interventions 5.3.1 Food interventions Sub 2023 LRA Population Estimated Wards Estimated County Food proportion in proportion in security need of need of immediate rank immediate food food assistance (Worst to assistance () () Per Ward best) per sub county Tiaty 2 73,424 35,000 (48) Silale 40-50 Loiyamorok 40-45 TangulbeiKorossi 20-30 ChuroAmaya 20-25 Tiaty East 2 79,923 25,000 (31) Tirioko 40-45 Kolowa 30-40 Ribkwo 30-40 Baringo 3 104,871 20,000 (19) Barwessa 20-30 SaimoKipsaraman 5-10 SaimoSoi 40-45 Kabartonjo 0-5 Bartabwa 40-45 Mogotio 4 91,104 10,000 (11) Mogotio 10-15 Emining 25-30 Kisanana 25-30 Baringo 5 90,104 10,000 (11) Mukutani 30-40 South Marigat 25-30 Ilchamus 20-25 Mochongoi 15-20 Baringo 6 96,951 5,000 (5) Kabarnet (salawa) 5-10 Central (Parts of Tenges, Sacho 5-10 Kabarnet, Sacho Tenges 5-10 and Kapropita Kapropita 5-10 wards) Ewalel Chapchap 0-5 Eldama 7 129,535 Lembus 0-5 Ravine 5000 (4) Ravine 0-5 Lembus Kwen Koibatek 0-5 Lembus Perkerra 0-5 Mumberesmaji mazuri 0-5 Total population in need of food assistance 110,000 5.3.2 None food interventions Sub County Intervention Ward No. of Proposed Requi Available Time beneficiarie Implementers red Resource Frame s Resou s All Agri nutrition all 10000 National Financ Staff 2023- support Government, es 2024 County (Kshs 1. Purchase and Government 200 and FAO, millio Traditional WFP, ELRP, n) high value crops. 2. Construction of farm ponds 3. Supply of drip kits and multi-storey gardens and vegetable seeds ALL Value addition of Mogoti 2000 WFP and 56M Staff, 2020- produce cereals o, County Groups 2024 (Maize, Sorghum Mariga Government of identified and Millet) t Baringo for through milling Tenges support and fortification of flour and Market linkages ALL Crops Post- 10000 National Financ Staff 2023- harvest Government, es 2024 management County (Kshs Government, 20 Construction and Millio of cereal stores Purchase and development distribution of partners hermetic bags Purchase and solar BNorth, Vaccinations 100,000 BCG, FAO 5M July Mogotio against LSD, Cattle, and other Dec. Tiaty CCPP and PPR Development 2023 270,000 (LSD, partners Deworming goats CCPP) Disease 50,000 Tiaty, surveillance Sheep BNorth .4M (LSD) -Baringo Establishment of 4,500HH MOALF 90 M July,2023 North strategic livestock -Dec feed reserves; 12 2023 -Tiaty(E across 6 sub- NDMA(EU) -Baringo - Mogotio Loruk, RenovationConst 13,000HH BCG, Partners 50M July,2023 Amaya, ruction of -Dec Nginyang livestock Auction 2023 and Kolloa yards All sub- Provisiojn of 5000HH BCGPartners 5M July,2023 counties pasture seeds -Dec All sub- Employment of 6,000HHs BCG 100M Continuo counties addition extension us staff to replace retirees Countywide 18 No. BH Comm 3580HH BCG, NG, 120M 10M 1- 6 Water Supply unity KRCS, WV, months Rehabilitation WS in UNCEF, upgrading pastora ACTED, Servicing and l and USAID, replacement of agro- NDMA, SHA, pumping units pastora Save the l Children livelih Roof Water Institut 150 BCG, NG, 15M - 1- 6 harvesting ions Institutions KRCS, WV, months structures Comm UNCEF, unities ACTED, in USAID, Pastora NDMA, l and SHA, CHILD Agro- Fund, Pastora Stock piling of Comm 1,260 HHs BCG, NG, 300,000 1- 6 Fast-Moving unity KRCS, WV, months Spares 24 No. WS in UNCEF, community water Pastora NDMA ASAL areas supplies l and agro- pastora Capacity Water 30 No. BCG, NG, 10 M 1- 6 Strengthening on supplie Community KRCS, WV, months WASH s in Water UNCEF, Sustainable Water Pastora supplies ACTED, Management and l and ACTION AID, Catchment Agro- USAID, protection Pastora NDMA Supply of Water pastora 3,000HHs BCG, NG, 6 M - 1 -6 treatment l and KRCS, WV, Months equipments like agro UNCEF, water purifiers, pastora ACTED, Pur, Aqua tabs etc l Zones ACTION AID, USAID, Water Whole Baringo BCG, NG, 3 M - 1 -6 Governance and County County KRCS, WV, Months Management Water UNCEF, ACTED, Policy Resources ACTION AID, development Users USAID, NEMA, WRMA, NDMA, WFP, Drilling and pastora 1,900HH BCG, NG, 120M 10 M 1 - 5 yrs Equipping of l and RCS, WV, strategic 18 No. agro UNCEF, BHs along pastora NDMA migratory routes l Zones and settlement areas Construction and pastora 1800HH BCG, NG, 200M 1 5 yrs Upgrading of 16 l and RCS, WV, No. potential Low agro UNCEF, Cost Water pastora NDMA, CIM, Supplies l Zones WFP Construction of 4 pastora 2400HH BCG, NG, 800M 1 -5Yrs No. Small dams l and RCS, WV, for domestic and agro UNCEF, irrigation water pastora NDMA use l Zones Desilting of pastora 3900HH BCG, NG, 500M 1 -5Yrs Intakes , Water l and RCS, WV, Pans and Dams agro UNCEF, pastora NDMA Capacity pastora 50 No. BCG, NG, 50 M 1 - 5Yrs Strengthening on l and Water RCS, WV, Wash Sustainable agro Supplies UNCEF, Water pastora NDMA, CIM, Management l Zones WFP Resources Mobilization Conflict Resolution and Management and All sub- Vitamin A 90,449 MOH 0.5M July - Dec (children 6 months) All sub Zinc 20,000 MOH July-Dec All Sub Management of 8,971 under MOH 28M July-Dec counties Acute five children 2023 Malnutrition (IMAM) Sub Capacity Building Children 0- KRCMOH 1.2 M July Dec Counties on MIYCN- E 23 months 2023 prone to Pregnant disasters and Lactating Mothers All sub IYCN 41,533 MOH 4.1 M July-Dec counties Interventions 2023 Children (EBF and Timely birth 2 Intro of years complementary Foods) Hot sport Integrated Population BCGKRC and 20.0 M July- Dec Areas outreaches in the hard UNICEFWFP 2023 to reach hot sport area All sub Iron Folate 34576 MOH 5.35M July-Dec counties Supplementation 2022 All pregnant among Pregnant women Women All sub Deworming 83,066 1.66M July-Dec counties children 1 2022 5 years Marigat,Tiat OF food stores in 519 schools education Food y East, Tiaty schools partners, stores West, county 1,000,0 Baringo Proper roads government, 00 519 North maintenance parents 519,000 million Roads quantity and civil enginee estimate