Banditry victims stare at disease outbreak as rains destroy safety camps

For nearly a year, they have sought shelter in fragile structures that they now call home. 

Now, the heavy rains that are being witnessed across the country have pounded the camp in Moinonin, washing away the meager belongings of the displaced persons and collapsing their tents.

The scene at Moinonin is one of utter devastation. Mothers and children, the most vulnerable in this crisis, huddle together, their faces etched with worry. 

The fear of a looming cholera and malaria outbreak hangs in the air, a consequence of the overcrowding and poor sanitary conditions caused by the downpour.

This is just but a representation of a larger humanitarian crisis gripping the north rift region, where banditry has forced thousands from their homes, leaving them dependent on aid organisations for survival.

"The recent rains have exacerbated an already dire situation," said a victim. "The risk of disease outbreaks is very real. We are calling on the government and humanitarian agencies to step up their interventions before it's too late."

Four locations in Baringo North are deserted, with 2,700 families displaced and 17 people killed since the beginning of the year. So far, 20 schools have been closed.

The displaced persons fear that the situation could worsen with the continued rains, calling for the government to intervene with speed to avert a disease outbreak.