On Tuesday, October 27, 2026, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) called for urgent humanitarian assistance as approximately 40,000 people sought refuge in Moyale after fleeing violence in Ethiopia.
The influx includes an estimated 36,000 people reported by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) as having crossed into Kenya. The arrivals have placed growing pressure on food, clean water, shelter and healthcare services in Marsabit County.
Thousands Seek Shelter in Moyale
The violence erupted on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, in the Ethiopian border town of Moyale. The clashes have been linked to tensions between Ethiopia’s Oromia and Somali regional states.
According to KNCHR, more than 15,000 displaced people are reportedly staying in eight temporary shelters. These include St Mary’s Catholic Church, Harhosha Secondary School and other local sites.
More than 20,000 others are staying with relatives and friends. However, host families are struggling to meet the growing demand for essential supplies.
The clashes have also disrupted cross-border trade. Several businesses have closed amid security fears, while transport operations have faced interruptions.
Humanitarian Needs Grow
Displaced families urgently need food, clean drinking water, temporary shelter, sanitation facilities and medical care. The Kenya Red Cross Society has begun distributing emergency supplies, including shelter kits and food assistance. Marsabit County authorities have also provided food to affected families.
Meanwhile, humanitarian agencies are assessing the situation to coordinate assistance and identify the most urgent needs.
Health officials have raised concerns about overcrowding and poor sanitation in temporary shelters. Authorities have also reported suspected measles cases that were awaiting laboratory confirmation.
KNCHR further highlighted the need for maternal healthcare after reports that four women had given birth at displacement sites. The Commission urged authorities to provide medical teams, newborn care and postnatal support.
Security Tightened Along Border
Kenyan authorities have increased security surveillance along the border to protect residents and manage the influx.
Marsabit County Commissioner Stanley Kamande has called for additional humanitarian support, including blankets, tents, mosquito nets and sanitation facilities.
The fighting has also raised concerns about stray gunfire crossing into Kenya. Reuters reported that a woman on the Kenyan side was struck by a bullet during the initial clashes. She was taken to hospital and reported to be in stable condition.
Calls for Urgent Assistance
KNCHR has urged the national government, Marsabit County authorities and humanitarian organisations to coordinate their response.
The Commission also called for protection measures for women and girls, unaccompanied children, older people and persons with disabilities.
It stressed that displaced people must receive humane treatment and access to essential services, regardless of nationality or immigration status.
As the situation develops, aid agencies warn that displaced families and host communities will need sustained support. Efforts to reduce tensions and protect civilians remain critical to preventing further displacement.
