During the devastating drought from 2021 to 2023 in Kenya, thousands of households across the arid and semi-arid lands faced immense hardship. For pastoralist communities, the drought meant a massive loss of livestock—their primary livelihood—and a severe strain on access to essentials like food, water, and health services. Forced migration for pasture further exposed families to unsafe sanitation practices, increasing the risk of water-borne diseases due to contaminated sources.

In response, Oxfam Kenya, funded by Australian Aid and in partnership with Strategies for Northern Development (SND) and the ASAL Humanitarian Network (AHN), stepped in to address these critical needs. Together, they initiated a community-led total sanitation (CLTS) program in Marsabit County, empowering communities with knowledge and resources to prioritize hygiene and adopt pit latrine construction.

Meet Dibayo Lemaro and learn about her inspiring journey toward a healthier, safer future.