This study analyses the outcomes of early actions implemented in Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia in 2017, evaluating how effective they were in mitigating the impact of severe drought on vulnerable pastoralist livelihoods and quantifying the benefits generated through acting early. Evidence shows that carefully-timed support protects and empowers people the most, giving them the confidence to keep going or to resume their livelihoods. Investing in early action means FAO can help shelter longer-term development gains and increase resilience.