Lamu: The Lamu County Government has initiated the establishment of disaster management clubs in schools to enhance preparedness and response to emergencies. The initiative, which has so far included 19 schools from the Hindi Ward region, aims to establish a culture of quick responses and early interventions to disasters within schools, particularly in the event of flash floods, fires, and disaster risk reduction.
According to Kenya News Agency, the County Chief Officer for Public Service Management, Khadija Fumo, emphasized the importance of early interventions in school settings through students, especially for schools within the Boni area, which are not easily accessible for public aid in case of disaster responses. Fumo stated that by engaging schools early, the initiative not only prevents disasters but also nurtures responsible citizens who understand lawful ways to express dissent and demand their rights.
Fumo further mentioned that the county government will consider including funding in its annual budget to aid in training and facilitating students earmarked as disaster response interventionists within their respective schools. This will be done in collaboration with the Kenya Coast Guard and World Vision. The Director of Peace Building, Shee Kupi, echoed similar sentiments, stating that the initiative aims to equip students and school staff with the necessary knowledge and skills to mitigate the impact of disasters.
Kupi explained that the clubs will focus on disaster risk reduction, emergency response training, and promoting a culture of safety within the school environment. He added that establishing these clubs aligns with the national policy for disaster management, which emphasizes the importance of mainstreaming disaster risk reduction in various sectors, including education.
Lamu World Vision Coordinator, Charles Kilonzo, stated that the clubs will serve as platforms for students to learn about potential hazards in their local areas, develop practical skills for responding to emergencies, and participate in drills and simulations. He noted that the clubs will foster collaboration between schools, community members, and relevant government agencies to ensure a coordinated approach to disaster management.
The patron of Hindi Secondary School, Chenzo Mengo, expressed that this program is timely, as students in Lamu face real risks, highlighting the need for such initiatives to avert future dangers. Walter Waswa, a teacher from Lakeside Mixed School, added that the training will enable the institutionalization of Saint John’s Ambulance Clubs within schools, which can further serve their communities during emergencies.
