Marsabit County Receives Government Aid After Storm Leaves Families Homeless in Sololo Sub-County

MARSABIT, Kenya – In response to the devastation caused by a severe rainstorm in Sololo sub-county, the Kenyan government has stepped forward to provide essential humanitarian assistance to the affected families.

According to Kenya News Agency, the aid was distributed to those who lost their homes in the Dabala-Fachana trading centre, highlighting the government’s efforts to support its citizens in times of need.

The assistance package, valued at approximately Sh 1.5 million, includes 500 iron sheets for rebuilding homes, alongside an array of non-food items such as blankets, aimed at offering immediate relief to the displaced families. Furthermore, the government has provided significant food aid, comprising 5,000 kilograms of rice, 100 fifty-kilogram bags of beans, and 54 liters of edible oil, to ensure the well-being of the affected community members during this challenging period.

Kello Harsama, the ASALs and regional development principal secretary, who personally delivered the aid last Friday, emphasized that the initiative seeks to help families resettle and recover from the disaster. Harsama reassured the public of President Ruto’s administration’s commitment to addressing the needs of all Kenyans, mentioning ongoing social development projects in Sololo, such as water pans and smart agriculture initiatives, aimed at helping the community adapt to the impacts of climate change.

The areas of Dabala-Fachana, Rawana, and Funyanata, situated in the lowlands of the Ethiopian highlands, are particularly vulnerable to natural disasters like flash floods and wind storms. Harsama disclosed ongoing plans to mitigate these risks, including the construction of dams and tree planting efforts, to prevent future occurrences.

The storm, which struck the area a week ago, left many families without shelter and resulted in the loss of household goods and other properties. Beneficiary Ms. Halima Galgalo expressed her gratitude towards the government for the support, stating that it would help the community settle and prevent starvation.

Also present during the aid distribution was the area Deputy County Commissioner Robert Nzuki, who assured the residents of continued support from the government in overcoming the aftermath of the storm.