State sets aside Sh40 million to mitigate floods
By Rawlings Otieno, March 7, 2025The government has set aside Sh40 million for disaster and emergency response ahead of the long rains.
Kisumu, Busia and Tana River residents have been warned of imminent floods during that period.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the government had strengthened early warning systems and disaster preparedness.
“The Government is investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, flood control measures, and disaster mitigation strategies to reduce vulnerability,” said Murkomen.
Appearing before the Senate plenary, Murkomen said that the prolonged 2024 rains resulted in flooding that affected most parts of the country. Some 315 people died due to the floods, 293,205 individuals were displaced and 412,263 persons were affected.
According to Murkomen, the flooding damaged roads, bridges, aerodromes, railway lines, health facilities and school infrastructure.
According to Murkomen, his ministry is now creating awareness on flood risks and safety measures, improving drainage systems in towns and acquiring food and non-food items in preparation for the season.
In addition, the government is fostering collaboration among stakeholders to develop coordinated responses to flooding incidents.
Murkomen was responding to nominated Senator Beatrice Ogolla who had sought to know the level of preparedness to perennial floods and drought.
And on livestock theft, Murkomen said the government has implemented a multi-faceted approach to address persistent raids in the region the Rift.
The Interior boss said that the government has increased police presence through specialised units such as the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU), Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU) and General Service Unit (GSU) to deter criminal activities.