COUNTY DROUGHT AND FOOD SECURITY COMMITTEE URGED TO ENHANCE DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

Deputy Governor H.E. Robert Komolle has asked all stakeholders in food security sector to increase collaborative efforts that will protect vulnerable communities from disasters such as droughts, floods, landslides and attain sustainability in addressing disasters.

Speaking during a sensitization workshop on National Drought Emergency Fund, 2018 Regulatios (NDEF) which seeks to establish a fund to cushion drought affected counties from the effect of famine and manage famine situations, H.E. Komolle urged County Drought and Food Security Committee to develop contingency plans to mitigate effects of drought in the county. The deputy governor said it was time to reduce the need on humanitarian assistance and build resilient communities.

“It is about time we develop resilient communities to be able to beat these disasters. Let’s empower our people, support them so as they are not severely affected by drought situations after every few years.” Said the deputy governor.

The County Drought and Food Security Committee were sensitized on their roles with regards to NDEF Regulations meant to guide operations and implementation of the National Drought Emergency Fund, established for the purpose of improving effectiveness and efficiency of drought risk management systems in the country as well as provide a common basket of emergency funds for drought risk management.

Finance and Planning CECM Paul Woyakapel raised concerns that the drought situation cycle needs to be broken, and shift focus on preparedness. He said there was need for counties, national government and stakeholders to sensitize and engage communities in climate-resilient activities such as tree planting, irrigation and excavation of water pan to cushion communities.

The 2 billion Fund will be used for contingency plans in all ASAL counties, which are categorized as 70% arid and semi-arid.

Committee co-chair County Commissioner Apollo Okelo, CECMs Lucky Litole, Wilfred Long’ronyang, Paul Woyakapel, Rebecca Kide, Claire Parklea, Mark Lottee, representatives from FBOs, Kenya Red Cross and people living with disabilities (PLWDS) were among those present at the workshop.