More than 19 counties in the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) have adversely been affected by the continued heavy rains in the nation.
While addressing Kenyans, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said the raging floods have affected and displaced over a thousand families and destroyed properties across the country in areas like Garissa, Mandera, Wajir and Busia.
“We acknowledge the enhanced rainfalls experienced in various parts of the country which has threatened lives and livelihoods, however, we are putting measures in place to assist those affected,” he
Gachagua in addition called on the county, the national government and other key agencies to work closely with partners and other humanitarian organizations in allocating resources to mitigate the adversities of the heavy rainfall.
“The government has mobilized financial resources and agency teams to help in the responsive exercises. As we speak, we are dispatching KCSE examinations to areas disconnected due to damaged roads, we are also distributing food, non-food and sanitation items to those affected to reduce their suffering,” said the Deputy President.
On the National Emergency Response Committee, Gachagua said the government and other partners have taken a raft of measures to reduce the negative impact of the rains including the deployment of aircraft of the Kenya Defense Forces for evacuation of marooned families to safe grounds.
Further, they have also set up Mobile Health Facilities in areas where infrastructure has been marooned or destroyed.
On security, the second in command said the Ministry of Interior will also provide security and assist in monitoring and updating other agencies on real-time basis.
In conclusion, Gachagua said the Government is monitoring the rain patterns for measures of averting any adverse outcomes as weather projections show the heavy rains will extend to the first quarter of 2024.
“I urge citizens to take advantage of the distress call numbers provided by the government in case of any emergency. I also thank the media for raising awareness on the flood and humanitarian situation across the country.”
Sally Namuye
