As food insecurity deepens in Kakuma Refugee Camp, a recent donation by humanitarian organization RAHMA worldwide has brought temporary relief to thousands of struggling families, both refugee and host community.
The donation, which included essential food items and water tanks, comes at a time when refugees are feeling the harsh effects of a new USAID policy that led to significant funding cuts to key refugee programs.
Kakuma Refugee Camp, home to over 200,000 displaced people, has long depended on aid from international donors to meet basic needs such as food, water, and healthcare.
However, the implementation of the new USAID policy has reduced the level of support, causing food rations to shrink and straining services already stretched thin.
“After USAID cut funding, we started receiving less food,” said Miriam, a mother of five and long-time resident of Kakuma. “Sometimes we go to sleep hungry. When RAHMA came with food and water tanks, it was a big help. We are very grateful.”
RAHMA’s donation included Rice, beans, cooking oil, and the installation of several water tanks in strategic areas of the camp. These efforts aim to reduce the long distances residents often travel in search of clean water, especially during the dry season.
“We responded to an urgent need,” said a representative from RAHMA. “These families are going through so much, and with major donors pulling back, it’s up to all of us to step in and ensure they are not forgotten.”
The impact of USAID’s new policy has been widely felt in camps like Kakuma. Kenya Government, Local NGOs and aid workers report increased pressure on resources and fear the situation could worsen unless new funding sources are secured.
“We are already seeing the effects,” said Evans Pasua, a community service officer at the Department of refugee kenya . “Families are eating less, and there is rising tension as resources become scarce. Donations like RAHMA’s are helpful, but we need sustained support.”
In the midst of growing uncertainty, refugees are calling on the international community to step up and reconsider policies that threaten their survival.
“We are not here by choice,” said Mezinkimana, Refugee in the camp. “We rely on food aid to survive. Without support, we don’t know what the future holds.”
For now, the generosity of organizations like RAHMA provides a lifeline—but the need for long-term solutions and renewed donor commitment remains urgent.
