The county government of Tana River is activating contingency plans for the impending El Nino rains to reduce its normally devastating effects.
Scientists contend that El Nino as part of a larger climate cycle is a naturally occurring climate phenomenon characterized by the abnormal warming of the Pacific sea surface temperatures.
The World Meteorological Association warns that the El Nino climate phenomenon could bring droughts, flooding, heat waves and displacement of people around the world later this year.
The international weather agency warned that the anticipated heavy rainfall could have far reaching consequences across many sectors including transportation, agriculture health and infrastructure.
The national government has activated an Ad Hoc Cabinet Committee on El Nino preparedness that will also support the devolved governments.
Area Governor Maj (Rtd) Dhadho Godhana says his administration is laying down adequate measures in anticipation of the El Nino rains expected between October and December this year.
Governor Godhana says Tana River is listed among the most at-risk counties hence the need for elaborate preparations for the dreaded rains.
Godhana says early preparedness and timely action remain essential in reducing the impacts of El Nino rains thus averting humanitarian crises and protecting livelihoods.
“We know the risks of El Nino rains and that is why we are vigilant as a devolved unit and acting early,” he said, adding that they are strengthening preparedness and response measures.
The county has identified villages in Tarasaa, Baomo, Bura, Dakole, Wayu and Kone areas as most at risk of flooding.
The authorities have lamented that people in such areas are lethargic in complying with the flood directives aimed at mitigating the impact of flooding.
Speaking after chairing a County Executive Committee meeting, Godhana directed the County Steering Group (CSG) which serves as the county’s disaster risk management team to begin response planning immediately.
“We are activating all county departments in conjunction with the State Department for Special Programmes and humanitarian agencies to ensure that in the event of the forecasted rains we are not caught flatfooted,” he said.
The county boss says to mitigate severe flooding and protect vulnerable communities the county government is evacuating people living along the banks of river Tana that meanders the length and breadth of the vast county.
Godhana says the county has begun the construction of low-cost housing aimed at benefiting local communities often affected by floods.
He says over the years the farming and pastoral communities in Tana River have been left destitute by recurrent floods and droughts.
The Governor says people along the river banks would be moved to houses built on safer ground under the ‘Dignified Housing Programme’ delivered through a partnership between Action Against Hunger and the County Government.
The free housing initiative targets flood-affected families providing shelter, dignity and a fresh start for the vulnerable population.
“We are committed to deal with future flood disasters and build up the resilience of local riverine communities,” he said.
Godhana reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to ensuring that residents displaced by floods receives a decent, safe and permanent shelter away from areas prone to floods.
“We are urging people living in the river banks, flood prone areas and lowlands to relocate to safer areas to avoid disasters,” he said.
He said flooding along the river Tana basin has become an annual phenomenon, often leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.
In previous seasons surging waters have swept away homes, livestock and submerged farmlands forcing many into temporary camps with limited access to basic services.
By Hussein Abdullahi
