The Kenya Red Cross is enhancing disaster response efforts in Garissa County by recruiting grassroots volunteers to improve efficiency during emergencies caused by floods and droughts. Emphasizing the need for training in various response skills, local officials and organizations advocate for community involvement and cooperation with government entities to optimize humanitarian assistance.
The Kenya Red Cross is ramping up its recruitment of volunteers in Garissa County to enhance its disaster response efforts amid ongoing challenges from floods and droughts. As articulated by Hassan Musa, the Northeastern Regional Coordinator, the limited number of volunteers in Garissa town has hindered timely emergency interventions. The organization aims to enlist grassroots volunteers to ensure a more efficient response during humanitarian crises.
During an Iftar session, Mr. Musa emphasized the importance of having volunteers in flood-prone areas to facilitate swift rescue operations, especially with anticipated heavy rains across the country. This recruitment initiative focuses on training volunteers in essential skills such as first aid, flood response, disaster preparedness, and the dissemination of public information, which will support timely assessments and food distribution during crises.
Mohamed Mohamud, Assistant County Commissioner, has advocated for training grassroots chiefs in disaster response. He stated, “The efforts to train volunteers are crucial for effective disaster response. We request that similar training be extended to chiefs, who can work hand in hand with volunteers at the grassroots level.” He encouraged youth to participate in recruitment, noting that the experience could lead to future employment opportunities in humanitarian organizations.
In response to those affected by drought, Garissa Branch Coordinator Daud Ahmed announced relief food distributions to 640 households in Lagdera and Balambala sub-counties. He highlighted the urgency of action due to a prolonged dry spell, exacerbated by below-average rainfall forecasts from the National Drought Management Authority and the Meteorological Department.
Abdirahman Maalim Abdullahi from the ICRC noted plans to implement humanitarian support along the Kenya-Somalia border, targeting regions often neglected due to insecurity. Ebla Hassan, Secretary General of the Garissa Farmers’ Network, praised the Kenya Red Cross volunteers for their timely intervention during the March-May 2024 floods, recalling a specific incident where volunteers rescued a distressed family.
Religious leaders, including Hassan Sheikh Abdi from the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims, commended the Red Cross and ICRC’s efforts in humanitarian emergencies. He acknowledged their past responses to crises, including the devastating Garissa floods and the tragic 2015 Garissa University terror attack.
Holugho Ward MCA Adow Omar challenged the Garissa County government to emulate the visible and responsive actions of the Red Cross, suggesting that despite substantial funding, the county fails to provide adequate assistance during disasters. He advocated for training among county officials to ensure efficient use of resources for public benefit. Other officials echoed support for the Red Cross, emphasizing its vital role in disaster response.
The Kenya Red Cross’s initiative to recruit volunteers at the grassroots level in Garissa County represents a strategic move to enhance disaster response capabilities amidst frequent flooding and drought conditions. As highlighted by various stakeholders, including local officials and community leaders, training and mobilization of volunteers are essential for ensuring timely humanitarian interventions. This collaborative effort aims to empower communities and optimize resource utilization during crises, ultimately safeguarding lives and livelihoods.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
