The Kenya Red Cross is intensifying volunteer recruitment in Garissa County to improve disaster response capabilities amid ongoing floods and drought. The initiative targets grassroots volunteers to facilitate timely interventions and effective training in disaster management. Relief food distribution efforts are also underway to assist drought-impacted households.
The Kenya Red Cross has initiated a robust volunteer recruitment drive in Garissa County to enhance disaster response amid the ongoing challenges of floods and drought. This recruitment, aimed at the grassroots level, seeks to address the inadequate volunteer presence in Garissa town, which has hindered timely emergency responses. Northeastern Regional Coordinator Hassan Musa highlighted the importance of having volunteers in high-risk areas, particularly as heavy rains are expected to exacerbate flooding conditions across the country.
Volunteers will receive training in essential skills including first aid, flood response, and disaster preparedness to improve intervention efforts during humanitarian crises. This initiative aims to facilitate prompt assessments and distribution of food during disasters. Mohamed Mohamud, representing local governance, emphasized the need to extend training to local chiefs, enhancing their capability to collaborate effectively with volunteers in emergency scenarios.
Garissa Branch Coordinator Daud Ahmed announced the distribution of relief food to 640 households affected by drought, particularly in Lagdera and Balambala sub-counties. He pointed out the concerning failure of the short rains from October to December and warned of anticipated below-average rainfall during the upcoming long rains.
Abdirahman Maalim Abdullahi from the ICRC indicated plans for humanitarian support along the Kenya-Somalia border, focusing on areas typically neglected due to insecurity. Ebla Hassan from the Garissa Farmers’ Network praised the Red Cross’s dedication, recalling a dramatic rescue involving a mother and her children stranded during floods.
Religious leaders upheld the efforts of the Kenya Red Cross, with SUPKEM official Hassan Sheikh Abdi recalling their efficient response during previous humanitarian emergencies. Local government perspectives included a call for increased accountability and effective resource management from county officials, emphasizing the need for better service in disaster response.
The Kenya Red Cross is actively strengthening its volunteer base in Garissa County to improve disaster response during floods and droughts. By recruiting and training volunteers at the grassroots level, the organization aims to enhance local intervention capabilities. This initiative, alongside the distribution of relief food, highlights ongoing efforts to address humanitarian needs amidst environmental challenges. Local leaders emphasize the importance of accountability and resource management to support the affected communities effectively.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
