Drought Situation & EW Phase Classification
Biophysical Indicators
Generally, the onset of rains was late by one weeks during the first week of November. The rains were characterised by even spatial distribution and good temporal distribution. Pasture and browse have regenerated but the current situation is below normal as indicated by a vegetation condition index (VCI) of 25.7 (moderate vegetation greenness deficit) and most of the open water sources have been recharged almost to their capacity.
Socio economic Indicators
Production: Livestock body condition was good for all species and animals were grazing in their normal areas during this time of the year. Milk production was above normal and no drought related deaths were reported. In the cropping sector, various crops were in good condition.
Access: Terms of trade were favourable and milk consumption was above the long term mean (LTM).Both the return distances to water sources and cost of water were normal.
Utilization: the coping strategy index (CSI) was below the LTM and the percentage number of children at risk of malnutrition was less compared to LTM