NAIROBI, Kenya — The United Arab Emirates has delivered 30,000 kilograms of dates to Kenya to support families affected by prolonged drought, as communities prepare for the holy month of Ramadhan.
The consignment arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi and was formally handed over by Osama Abuseem Alali, Head of Consular Affairs and National Services, on behalf of the UAE Ambassador to Kenya, Dr Salim Ibrahim AlNaqbi.
It was received by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale and Kenya Red Cross Secretary General Dr Ahmed Idris.
The Kenya Red Cross said the donation will be distributed to vulnerable households in drought-affected areas, particularly in arid and semi-arid counties where food insecurity has worsened following successive dry seasons.
Today, the Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) delivered 30,000 kilograms of dates to support drought-affected families in Kenya.The consignment was officially handed over by Mr. Osama Abuseem Alali, Head of Consular Affairs and National Services, on behalf of H.E. Dr.
Dates hold cultural and religious significance during Ramadan, when Muslims traditionally break their fast with the fruit.
Officials said the timing of the donation would provide both nutritional support and symbolic solidarity with affected communities.
Kenya is facing a severe drought after one of the driest October–December rainy seasons on record, leaving over 2 million people across arid and semi-arid counties at risk of food insecurity and water scarcity.
The National Drought Management Authority reports multiple counties in “alarm” and “alert” phases, with malnutrition rising and urgent humanitarian support needed as the crisis deepens.
The UAE has previously supported humanitarian and development initiatives in Kenya, particularly during emergencies.
