As climate shocks worsen, families are forced to trade daughters for survival

The sun is unforgiving in North Horr, Marsabit County. Rivers that once sustained entire communities now lie buried beneath layers of dust. As drought tightens its grip, a vanished lifeline has given way to hunger, loss and choices no family should have to make.

Livestock is increasingly scarce. Many animals have succumbed to the drought, while the few that remain are driven for miles in search of pasture. The most common sight now is donkeys with yellow jerricans strapped to their backs, ferrying what little water can still be found. But even that is running out. Wells have dried up, and hunger is setting in.