𝐊𝐀𝐊𝐀𝐌𝐄𝐆𝐀 𝐂𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐓𝐘 𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐏𝐒 𝐔𝐏 𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝐀𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐎𝐅 𝐄𝐗𝐏𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐄𝐋 𝐍𝐈Ñ𝐎 𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐒

H.E. Governor Dr. Fernandes Barasa, FCPA, OGW, has assured residents that the County Government, working closely with the National Government and other stakeholders, is prepared to respond to the anticipated El Niño rains from October through February next year.

Speaking during a press briefing following a high-level preparedness meeting at the County Headquarters, Governor Barasa said measures had been put in place to protect residents, infrastructure, health services, food supplies and livelihoods from the effects of heavy rains.

The meeting, co-chaired by County Secretary Dr. Lawrence Omuhaka and County Commissioner Mr. James Taari Rwaria, brought together County departments, national government agencies, humanitarian organisations and other partners to coordinate preparedness and response. A joint team will oversee the response, while Sub-County Administrators and Deputy County Commissioners will identify areas at risk of flooding, mudslides and other emergencies, with special attention to Matungu, Mumias East, Mumias West, Navakholo, Lugari, Khwisero and Likuyani, among other vulnerable areas.

The County will clear blocked drainage systems and waterways, strengthen disease surveillance and prepare health facilities for possible emergencies.

Agriculture and Livestock officers will advise farmers on suitable short-season crops and livestock protection, while the County Treasury will facilitate emergency response within the law. The County Communication function will provide residents with timely information, alerts and warnings.

Governor Barasa urged residents to take precautions, plant short-season crops and harvest rainwater where possible. The County will also conduct practical emergency response exercises with partners before the rains peak and regularly review the situation to ensure timely action.

The preparations have been informed by the experience of the 2023 El Niño rains, which had significant effects in different parts of the region.

Also present were County Secretary and Head of Public Service Dr. Lawrence Omuhaka, CECMs led by the incharge of Public Service and Administration Dr. Boniface Okoth, representatives of national government agencies, development partners and other stakeholders.