Kenya has received a Sh360 million rice donation from China, intended to support over 2.8 million individuals in 23 ASAL counties facing food insecurity due to low rainfall and recent droughts. Government officials emphasize the importance of building resilience and exploring alternative livelihoods to combat drought effects.
The Government of Kenya has received a substantial rice donation valued at Sh360 million from the People’s Republic of China, aimed at supporting over 2.8 million residents in 23 Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) counties. This initiative is designed to bolster food security in these regions, which are currently grappling with heightened vulnerability due to below-normal rainfall during the March-May and April-June periods.
The challenging climate conditions have exacerbated food insecurity, compounded by the ongoing recovery from the prolonged drought experienced from 2021 to 2023, marked by five consecutive failed rainy seasons. During a launch event in Kumpa, Kajiado Central, Beatrice Askul, the Cabinet Secretary for East African Community (EAC), emphasized the critical need for communities to build resilience against climate change impacts.
Cabinet Secretary Askul encouraged ASAL counties to explore alternative livelihood opportunities to mitigate the effects of prolonged drought conditions. “We have received 40,000 bags of rice to assist communities in ASAL areas who are facing drought due to below normal rainfall; even as we do so, we are emphasizing on embracing alternative sources of livelihoods,” she stated.
The Cabinet Secretary expressed her gratitude to the Chinese government for its unwavering support during Kenya’s challenging times related to disasters. She highlighted the necessity of leveraging financial and technical assistance from development partners to enhance food security and improve livelihoods.
Principal Secretary for ASAL and Regional Development, Mr. Kello Harsama, reiterated the significance of resilience programs, mentioning initiatives such as sinking boreholes and constructing dams in ASAL areas to facilitate local agricultural production. He highlighted that ASAL regions are most impacted during prolonged droughts, and early resilience development is essential.
“We have embarked on resilience programmes including building dams and sinking boreholes in ASAL counties to enable residents to grow crops that will boost food security,” Mr. Harsama asserted. He underscored the ministry’s heavy investments in water, smart agriculture, and pastoralism to assist communities in drought-stricken areas.
Minister Counselor Mr. Zhou Zhencheng of the People’s Republic of China reaffirmed China’s support for Kenya, emphasizing the expansion of bilateral relations in areas such as socio-economic development. “The People’s Republic of China will continue supporting Kenya during such tough times as drought or floods as the two countries enjoy mutual bilateral relations,” he assured.
In conclusion, the rice donation from China represents a vital response to food insecurity in Kenya’s ASAL counties, which face challenges due to adverse climate conditions and past droughts. The remarks by officials highlight the importance of resilience-building measures and alternative livelihoods for mitigating the impacts of climate change. Furthermore, the ongoing support from the Chinese government underscores the strong bilateral relations that facilitate mutual aid during times of crisis.
Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke
