By Betty Luke
The National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) has launched a nationwide race to raise Sh130.8 million to curb water shortage in Laikipia, Samburu, Isiolo and Meru counties.
NDMA CEO Hared Adan said the pilot initiative, slated for August,8 this year at Archer’s Post in Samburu county, seeks to mobilize resources to support communities that are hard hit by prolonged drought.
The race, according to the official, will involve residents and non residents of the affected counties including ex-morans who he said were key in ensuring peace and cohesion in the region that has for a long time experienced conflict over inadequate pasture and water.
The initiative aims to benefit about 30,000 people and 50,000 herds of livestock with access adequate water resource.
“For a long time, drought has been viewed as a humanitarian crisis but today it is clear that drought is a development, economic and a peace and security issues,” he said adding that drought had greatly impacted the economic potential of the country.
The race, in partnership with Athletics Kenya is expected to curb human-wildlife conflict by ensuring targeted families can access water near their homes.
The official called on young people to take deliberate efforts in support initiatives that promote peace and cohesion within their localities.
An April report by the Kenya Red Cross revealed that the Arid and Semi Arid Lands of Kenya were facing one of the most severe droughts in the recent past.
According to the report water sources had dried up in the region with food insecurity severely affecting the residents.
The report called for an urgent intervention noting that failure to offer humanitarian aid, the crisis would continue to worsen.
