Kenya integrates anticipatory financing into national budgets to prepare for disasters
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Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced that the Kenyan government is moving to build disaster funding directly into national contingency budgets and social protection systems.
This initiative aims to ensure that money reaches vulnerable communities before droughts or floods escalate into full-scale crises. Murkomen stated that the government wants to move away from relying on temporary projects or funding that only arrives after damage has already occurred.
The Disaster Risk Financing Strategy for 2026 to 2030 serves as the framework for this plan. It allows the government to secure funds in advance and release them quickly once specific risk triggers are met. To support this, the government plans to fully implement the Disaster Risk Management Act, 2026, which establishes clear responsibilities and coordination procedures for both national and county levels.
Murkomen noted that while domestic funding is the priority, the government will also use risk financing and insurance from development partners. Workneh Gebeyehu, the Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), joined the discussion to address climate shocks and economic pressures across Eastern Africa. He urged regional governments to turn forecasts into practical interventions so that resources reach people before hazards cause widespread destruction.
Gebeyehu emphasized that women, young people, and pastoral communities must have the authority and information to participate in decisions that affect their safety. The meeting aims to result in a ministerial declaration on financing and policy commitments to ensure regional governments act before disasters strike.
