Communities along River Tana trained on El Nino preparedness

Communities residing along River Tana in Garissa and Tana River counties have undergone a three-day training program focused on disaster risk reduction and management. This training was conducted by the non-governmental organization, Helping Hand for Relief and Development, with the purpose of preparing these communities for the impending El Nino rains set to arrive between October and December.

During the training sessions, participants were instructed on evacuation procedures, hazard mapping, and risk identification within their communities. Topics also included the establishment of communication structures and incident command centers, as well as the development of comprehensive community disaster management plans. It is estimated that approximately 700 individuals residing in the designated communities will be required to relocate to higher ground before the onset of the rainy season.

Yussuf Ibrahim, the Head of Programs at Helping Hand, addressed a public forum in Deri village to discuss the importance of this training. He emphasized that the program aims to empower the communities with the necessary knowledge and skills required to effectively prepare for and respond to floods. Ibrahim explained that the organization is utilizing locally available resources to capacity build the residents, with the ultimate goal of minimizing casualties and preserving property during potential floods.

The organization has previously conducted hazard mapping in the area, identifying it as one of the most vulnerable regions in Tana River County. Ibrahim reiterated the significance of the training, stating that the communities have faced repeated evacuations since 1997. He expressed hope that the knowledge gained during the training would enable the residents to better prepare for the anticipated floods.

Furthermore, Ibrahim appealed to the national and county governments, as well as NGOs and well-wishers, to collaborate in mobilizing resources and create a permanent solution for the communities, thus alleviating their ongoing struggles with annual flooding. Zahara Asha Abdalla, a resident of Deri village, shared her personal experiences with the harsh effects of past floods, particularly the challenges faced by women, children, senior citizens, and individuals with disabilities.

She stressed the importance of early warning measures and the need for communities to take proactive steps in preparing for disasters.

In response to the training, Mororo location chief emphasized the importance of adhering to early warning messages from various government agencies to prevent loss of life or property. He also vowed to take action against those who refuse to comply with evacuation orders.