Kenya Has Never Had Famine Since My Husband Became President - Rachel Ruto Claims

First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto claimed that she has “never witnessed drought in the country” and suggested that recent rains have ensured food security.

Speaking at an interview, Rachel Ruto recalled an incident from February 14, 2023, when concerns about water scarcity were raised.

She said that exactly one month later, heavy rains began, surprising the country.

“When William Ruto became president in 2022, Kenya was experiencing a severe drought. In February 2023, he called for a solemn assembly where we prayed, repented, and asked God for rain. Exactly one month later, the rains began and have never stopped. Now we are food secure," Rachel Ruto.

Rachel Ruto also highlighted the importance of water supplies for communities in need, noting that government assistance and support programs help people access food and water.

“If we don't do this, they will not be able to work, and the world will not be safe,” she said.

The First Lady spoke extensively about prayer initiatives, noting that her family has been praying for the country and that gatherings for prayers are happening across the nation. She referenced government programs such as the Office of Diplomacy and Trust (ICAM-SETO), which organises activities to support the woman president and community welfare.

“Sometimes you are walking, and you see in the parks, groups meeting and just praying. People have overnight prayers, like even in the statehouse, we have overnight prayers every Friday,” she explained.

Despite the First Lady’s remarks, official reports and independent assessments show that drought remains a serious issue in Kenya.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), over two million Kenyans face worsening food insecurity and nutrition crises due to failed rainy seasons in late 2025 and early 2026.

Northern and arid counties, including Turkana, Mandera, and Marsabit, continue to experience water scarcity, poor pasture conditions, and livestock losses.

Many communities rely on emergency food and water interventions coordinated by the government and international partners like the FAO.

While some parts of the country have received localised rainfall, including areas experiencing flooding, these events do not negate the ongoing drought in the north and northeast, where livelihoods and food security remain threatened.

Humanitarian agencies emphasise that continued intervention is necessary, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions, to support vulnerable populations, protect livestock, and mitigate the effects of prolonged dry spells.