When the Shelter Fails: Rain and Fire Threaten Homes in Northern Kenya

In the northern regions of Kenya, nomadic pastoralist communities have for generations built homes that support their mobile lifestyle. These shelters — made from sticks, mats, and plastic sheeting — are light and easy to dismantle and rebuild as families move in search of pasture and water. But the communities we serve have been increasingly exposed to two major threats: rains that destroy homes and fire outbreaks that leave families homeless.

☔ When the Rains Fall, So Do the Homes

During the rainy season, it is common for families to experience destruction of their homes. The traditional structures are not designed to withstand heavy rainfall. Mud walls collapse. Plastic coverings tear. And sometimes, flooding sweeps everything away.

These aren't isolated incidents — they're becoming recurring patterns, driven in part by climate change and increasing weather variability. Communities in Laisamis, Logologo, and other parts of Marsabit County continue to report significant damage due to heavy rains.

🔥 Fires in the Dry Season

In the dry months, the risk flips. Fires caused by open cooking flames, kerosene lamps, or strong winds spark blazes that race through homesteads made of highly flammable material. Communities in areas like Korr and Kargi have reported multiple fire outbreaks in recent years, often during the late-night hours when containment is hardest.

These fires not only destroy homes but also claim food, clothes, school supplies, and the fragile sense of security families rely on. Recovery is often slow and difficult, especially without access to emergency support or resilient building alternatives.

💡 What We're Doing

At New Life Shelter for Nomadic People of Kenya (NLSNPK), we are working with local communities to:

• Build more resilient housing using a blend of traditional and modern materials.
• Train families in fire safety and promote safer cooking methods.
• Respond quickly to emergency housing needs after disasters strike.

We believe that every nomadic family deserves shelter that protects — not just from the sun, but from the elements and emergencies too.