Korane steps up mitigation measures as drought continues

The Garissa county government is stepping up short-term mitigation efforts and response to assuage the drought impacts on pastoralist communities.

Governor Ali Korane said the state was committing more resources to provide water and livelihood support to drought-stricken nomadic pastoralist communities across the subcounties.

Korane was speaking during a meeting with a delegation of Abdikarim community elders at his residence on Monday.

The governor, who was meeting the community representatives to listen to the development needs of the residents in Hulugho subcounty, assured community members of government support.

Hulugho subcounty administrator Abdullahi Gedi who led the delegation highlighted the drought situation in the area.

Gedi said dried up water pans had exerted pressure on the boreholes resulting in over-concentration of livestock and humans hence, causing frequent breakdowns.

In its July 2021 report, the National Drought Management Authority raised the alarm over the looming long dry spell in Garissa and several other counties across the country.

Last month, Devolution CAS Abdul Bahari while speaking in Garissa during a mission on the drought situation said, he was satisfied with the level of coordination between the national and county governments.

The last three months have seen pasture depleted and diminishing water levels. Several boreholes have broken down due to growing demand.

The situation has seen the animals deteriorate in health, affecting their market prices.

The CAS revealed that efforts were being made to ensure that the off-take programme starts soon.

(Edited by Bilha Makokha)