Stakeholders Converge for West Pokot's Disaster Risk Policy Validation

With the backing of USAID KUZA, the West Pokot County Government's Directorate of Disaster and Risk Management convened a validation meeting for their implementation plan at Sirikwa Hotel.

The gathering saw the participation of various stakeholders and development partners, including Umoja Development Organization (UDO), World Vision, Action Against Hunger (ACF), Transformation, Empowerment Disability Development Organization (TEDDO), Anglican Development Services (ADS), KEPACO, National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA), National Drought Management Authority (NDMA), Way of Peace, as well as representatives from non-governmental organizations (NGAOs) and officials from different county directorates such as legal services, disaster risk management, ICT, education, and administration.

This validation session follows the recently introduction of the West Pokot County Disaster Risk Management Policy.

During the meeting, Martin Lottee, the County Executive Committee member responsible for public service management, devolved units, and ICT, emphasized the importance of stakeholder validation in ensuring the policy's effectiveness, relevance, and suitability in addressing potential hazards and vulnerabilities.

He further highlighted that such exercises validate policies against current best practices, backed by thorough evidence and analysis, and crafted with input from relevant stakeholders.

David Chepelion, the Chief Officer overseeing special programs, echoed Lottee's sentiments, emphasizing that the validation process empowers decision-makers to strengthen disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts, thereby mitigating the impact of disasters on communities and build resilience through policy interventions.

USAID KUZA representative, John Githaka, commended the commitment of participants in identifying needs and areas that will fortify the policy's effectiveness.