Devolution CS Eugene Wamalwa on Wednesday revealed how Ksh1.8 Billion had been disbursed by the government to combat famine in the country since January.
Speaking on the state of drought and famine in the country, the CS stated that the money had gone into helping almost 100,000 households mitigate the effects of drought in the country.
“We have, through the hunger safety-net program, been able to transfer in this period from January about Ksh1 Billion which has gone towards helping almost 100,000 households," he stated.
The Devolution CS noted that there were 13 counties affected by the drought with Turkana, Wajir, Mandera and Marsabit counties being the worst hit.
He further assured that water pans were being constructed to help in collecting water with the expected rains.
"Many water pans are being constructed as we speak. We expect as the rains come, we will be able to fill them with water that will help many households in getting clean water and also aid in food production.
"We have had Ksh650 Million released to the Ministry of Water in many counties because of the stress in terms of limited resources, boreholes and many of them have broken down. The Ministry of Water will be able to assist through regional bodies and restoration of the boreholes," he added.
Wamalwa further assured that the interventions would continue as they scale the projects up to counter the effects of the drought.
"The weather situation is not improving in terms of the delayed rains; we are still hopeful that the rains will come. In the event that this does not happen then experts are also indicating the situation could worsen. We are prepared for any eventuality as government," he noted.
Earlier in April, CS Mwangi Kiunjuri stated that the government had been focusing on providing water for irrigation by sinking community water pans, earth dams, and household irrigation water pans.
"The pans in construction are Kwa Matu Water pan in Machakos County, Kerwa Earth Dam in Embu County, Kathanje Earth Dam in Tharaka Nithi County, Nguthiru Laingo Earth Dam in Meru County, Lepiile Water Pan in Samburu County, Barariru Water Pan in Laikipia and Languruman in Isiolo County," he stated.
