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Sophie Njoka

The Government has released Sh5.2 billion to support Kenyans affected by disasters such as the recent floods and fight ongoing locust invasion in parts of the country.

President Uhuru Kenyatta said the funds will, among others, be used to provide relief food supplies and undertake a resettlement programme for the displaced communities.

He noted that the ongoing unusually heavy rains witnessed in the country since late last year, have resulted in flooding and landslides. 

Uhuru, who was addressing the nation from State House, Mombasa, said part of the money will also support reconstruction of homes that have been destroyed, address health concerns and reconstruct critical infrastructure, including water supplies. 

“The ongoing rains have caused at least 40 fatalities, displacement of families, loss of livestock and are now posing health risks,” he said.

Monitoring implementation

Uhuru said he is closely monitoring the implementation of this disaster recovery operation to ensure that the affected households are able to regain some stability as soon as possible.

Uhuru said Coast, Eastern, North Eastern, North Rift, Mount Kenya, Western and Nyanza region are among areas hit hard by the heavy flooding and landslides. 

“If you have any concerns about the implementation of the resettlement programme for the displaced communities, I encourage you to share it with your county administration,” he said.

Desert locusts continue to cause panic as they spread to more counties. 

The locust have now invaded several counties including Mandera, Wajir, Marsabit, Garissa, Isiolo, Samburu, Meru, Laikipia and Kirinyaga. 

Outgoing Agriculture CS Mwangi Kiunjuri said on Friday the ministry was yet to receive Sh254 million it had requested the National Treasury to help in controlling the locusts.