Over 80% of Kenya’s Land is Arid or Semi-Arid – and Communities Are Turning It into Lifelines

It may come as a surprise, but over 80% of Kenya’s land is dry, receiving minimal rainfall. These areas face regular water stress, land degradation, and food insecurity. But across the country, communities are adapting with brilliance.

In Kajiado, WRUAs have constructed sand dams that trap seasonal rainwater for year-round use. In Garissa and Kitui, communities are reviving traditional water pans with modern lining techniques. In Baringo, WRUAs are fencing off degraded catchments to allow natural regeneration.

These examples prove one thing: when people are trained and trusted, they will protect their resources for generations to come.

“Even when it doesn’t rain, we have water. Because we prepared for it,” — Mzee Wambua, WRUA Chair, Kitui County

👉 KeNAWRUA provides technical training, materials, and advocacy support to over 750 WRUAs in these regions—ensuring no one is left behind.