Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua took the lead in a significant relief effort on Monday in Garissa and Tana River Counties, two areas severely affected by the El Nino crisis.
Accompanied by relevant Cabinet secretaries, international development partners, and government agencies, the team distributed essential supplies to families displaced by the destructive El Nino, causing loss of life and extensive damage to livelihoods and infrastructure.
In the company of Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and counterpart Peninah Malonza, Deputy President Gachagua surveyed the damage to road networks in Madogo-Garissa, promising ongoing restoration efforts.
A substantial amount of Sh.1 billion has been allocated for the rehabilitation of these roads.
A total of Ksh.451,699,200 has been released for cash transfers to support 119,178 vulnerable households across eight arid counties, including Garissa and Tana River.
The funds, disbursed under the Hunger Safety Net Programme implemented by the National Drought Management Authority, aim to provide relief for those affected.
Deputy President Gachagua emphasized the government’s commitment to working with partners to mitigate the impact of the disaster.
He stated, “The loss of lives and destruction of property in times of disaster is a concern for our President, H.E Dr. William Ruto.
We are working with the Governors and other partners in ensuring no more lives or property are lost henceforth.”
The funds will be distributed to beneficiary households in Garissa and Tana River Counties, with monthly transfers for October, November, and December.
The Deputy President urged development partners to continue providing financial and technical assistance to address the challenging living conditions and the risk of disease outbreaks due to poor sanitation and lack of clean water.
During his visit to Tana River, Deputy President Gachagua interacted with displaced families at Jua Kali camp, appealing to development partners to support ongoing efforts to restore normalcy.
He highlighted the government’s use of helicopters and vehicles from the Kenya Defence Forces and National Police Service to deliver crucial supplies to flood-affected areas.
Deputy President Gachagua stressed the need for lasting solutions, urging governors in affected areas to suspend development projects and allocate resources to mitigation measures.
He stated, “The answer lies in lasting solutions,” emphasizing a synchronized strategy to enhance resilience.
In conclusion, Deputy President Gachagua assured Kenyans of the government’s determination to prevent further loss of lives.
He encouraged residents to support President William Ruto’s ambitious goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032 as a lasting measure to mitigate the impact of climate change.
