Government steps up drought relief in Baringo County

The government has intensified emergency relief and long-term development efforts to support drought-stricken families in Baringo and other arid and semi-arid region.

Speaking during a visit to Kolowa and Chemolingot in Tiaty, Baringo County, Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Geoffrey Ruku emphasized that emergency interventions are in line with his ministry’s mandate, which includes disaster response, food security, human capital development, and social empowerment.

The CS who was accompanied by senior government officials to deliver critical relief services to vulnerable families affected by prolonged drought noted that the initiatives are citizen-centered, evidence-based, and aligned with President William Ruto’s long-term vision for equitable development across the country.

He pointed significant gains made under the Kenya Kwanza administration, including a drop in inflation from 9.8% to 3.8%, a stronger Kenya Shilling now rated as one of the best performing currencies globally, and a reduced Central Bank lending rate from 13% to 9.8%.

“These are facts you cannot manipulate. Our economy is stabilizing. Investors are coming back, and citizens can now access affordable credit,” he said. Accompanying the CS were local leaders Kamket Kassait (Tiaty), Titus Lotee (Kacheliba), and Sergen Jematia, who echoed his sentiments.

They credited the Kenya Kwanza administration for restoring security in previously volatile regions, expanding infrastructure, and bringing essential services closer to the people.

“Today, a Cabinet Secretary can visit Tiaty, a place that was once a no go zone, thanks to improved security under President Ruto’s leadership,” noted one of the leaders.

The government, through the State Department for Special Programmes, is scaling up emergency response in ASAL counties by distributing food and essential relief items.

Simultaneously, it is implementing sustainable water and agricultural infrastructure projects aimed at addressing the root causes of food insecurity and water scarcity.

Among the key development initiatives is the Cheraik Irrigation Project, which has already been operationalized, and the Radat Dam, now under initial construction.

Additionally, Chemeron Dam is currently undergoing rehabilitation to supply water to over 10,500 households and more than 150,000 livestock.

Under the stewardship of the Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA), the government has completed and commissioned 14 additional water projects in Baringo County.

These include boreholes, small dams, and earth dams that are expected to serve over 5,000 households and support over 110,000 livestock.

These efforts are part of the government’s broader agenda to promote resilience in ASAL regions through irrigation, food security, and improved livelihoods.

At the same time, CS Ruku reassured the residents on the plans to open additional Huduma Centres in the region, ensuring easier access to government services such as National Identity registration and public documentation without residents having to travel long distances.