Olkalou:Nyandarua Nyandarua County has allocated Sh75 million to prepare for the anticipated El Nino rains, aiming to protect residents in areas prone to its adverse effects.
According to Kenya News Agency, Nyandarua County Executive Committee for Water and Environment, Wachira Mugo, announced the allocation during a flagging off and cleanup exercise in Olkalou town. Mugo emphasized the county’s commitment to following scientific advice from the Kenya Meteorological Department to mitigate the impact of the rains.
Kelvin Nelson from the Kenya Red Cross Society echoed Mugo’s sentiments, advising residents in flood-prone areas to be ready to relocate to safer locations as El Nino approaches.
In addition to the El Nino preparedness, Nyandarua County has committed Sh350 million for environmental conservation efforts, including desilting dams, drilling boreholes, and rehabilitating Lake Olborosat with a dedicated Sh20 million fund. Mugo urged residents to avoid planting gum trees along riverbanks to conserve water reservoirs.
Mugo highlighted the importance of environmental conservation in controlling floods, preventing diseases, and reducing pollution. He warned that neglecting these measures could deplete natural resources, leading to water rationing and reduced food production. The county plans to organize public awareness campaigns on environmental conservation and discouraged allowing animals to roam in public areas to protect new plantings.
To improve solid waste management, the county aims to establish designated waste dumping sites in every sub-county, facilitating better waste management and enhancing environmental conservation.
