Drought in Ukambani

The drought that has recently affected many parts of the country has also spread its tentacles to the regions of Ukambani, where Bilal Centers are located 200 kms from Mombasa along Mombasa/Nairobi highway.  Scarcity of rains combined with searing heat and failure of harvests means that the people here face a dejected future unless there is immediate intervention in easing their suffering.
 

To observe the actual situation, a delegation from Bilal Muslim Mission, on the 9th of August 2009, visited the centers in Ukambani. What they saw was a barren land, scorched and dry, a land that could barely produce anything. Having noted the dire situation, relief food consisting of maize was dispatched to the three Ukambani centers. A total of 65 sacks (90 Kgs each) were distributed.

Faced with very few options for survival, the desperate residents take the fruit of baobab trees, crush it, mix it with water and drink it as porridge to substitute for their hunger.

In addition, many people were forced to sell off their major source of income- livestock. Those who opted to retain their herds watched them die due to starvation, the parched land unable to support their existence.

Also, worried parents are now being forced to send their children to urban areas in search of low paying jobs- to provide their families with at least a measure of relief.

These calamities have had a direct impact on their participation in religious and social activities. Attendance in the mosque, schools, madrasah and religious occasions have drastically declined as people seek alternative ways to support themselves.
	They need your help!

The month of Muharram has set in, and once again we will re live the hunger and thirst of the martyrs. And as we remember, let us spare a thought for our brethren in faith in Ukambani. Let us extend a helping hand to them, and in doing so, do justice to the memory of our beloved Imam.

	Cost of ration for one individual per month Kenya Shillings 1600 Canadian Dollars 25 American Dollars 21 Sterling Pounds 13
Total cost of relief for one month Kenya shillings 526,400 Canadian dollars 7520 American dollars 7114 Sterling pounds 4387

December 2009