As the country anticipates and prepares for the forthcoming El-nino rains, Nyandarua County has set aside Sh75 million for preparedness.

The funds will be utilized to cushion residents in El-Nino prone areas from adverse effects of the rains.            

This was revealed by Nyandarua County Executive Committee for Water and Environment Wachira Mugo.            

Speaking during flagging off and cleanup exercise in Olkalou town, Mugo further noted as a county they are obliged to respect science and the advice of Kenya Meteorological Department by putting in place measures that would cushion the residents against negative effects of the rains.            

His sentiment was echoed by Kelvin Nelson from Kenya Red cross Society, who urged residents living in flood prone areas to be ready to relocate to safer grounds as the nation gears for the El-nino rains.           

On the environment conservation, Mugo said the county has set aside Sh350 Million for desilting dams, drilling boreholes and environment conservation as well as Sh20 million for rehabilitation of Lake Olborosat.            

The County Executive further on called the residents to avoid planting gum trees along river banks, as a way of conserving the County’s water reservoirs.

Mugo reiterated that environment conservation is crucial in ensuring floods control, prevention diseases and also checking on pollution, adding that acting on the contrary affects natural resources such as water leading to water rationing and low food production.             

In addition, he said they will organize for public sensitization on environmental conservation, while also urging residents not to allow animals to loiter in towns and public places to avoid destroying the seedlings being planted.            

On solid waste management, Mugo pointed out that the county plans to establish designated waste dumping sites in every sub county across the county.            

He said this would fast track waste management at the source, hence leading to enhancement in environment conservation. 

by Kimani Tirus