Kenya Receives Sh360 Million Rice Donation from China to Combat Drought Challenges

Kenya has received a Sh360 million rice donation from China to aid over 2.8 million people in ASAL counties facing food insecurity due to drought. The initiative aims to promote food security and resilience against climate change. Key officials emphasized the importance of alternative livelihoods and infrastructure development in supporting affected communities.

The Government of Kenya has received a significant donation of rice valued at Sh360 million from the People’s Republic of China, intended for distribution to more than 2.8 million individuals residing in 23 Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) counties. This initiative aims to enhance food security in regions that are particularly vulnerable due to insufficient rainfall during critical growing seasons and ongoing challenges from prior droughts.

During the donation launch held in Kumpa, Kajiado Central, the Cabinet Secretary for East African Community, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands, and Regional Development, Ms. Beatrice Askul, underscored the necessity of building community resilience to effectively address climate change impacts. “We have received 40,000 bags of rice to assist communities in ASAL areas who are facing drought due to below normal rainfall in the counties,” she stated, urging local populations to explore alternative livelihood sources to mitigate prolonged drought effects.

Ms. Askul expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for their ongoing support to Kenya during crises, particularly concerning disasters. She emphasized the importance of collaborating with development partners to improve food security and enhance community resilience. Furthermore, Mr. Kello Harsama, Principal Secretary of ASAL and Regional Development, reiterated the government’s commitment to resilience-building programs, which include the construction of dams and boreholes to support local food production efforts.

Mr. Harsama noted that ASAL counties are severely affected by prolonged droughts, making early resilience-building crucial. “We are investing heavily in water and smart agriculture and pastoralism to enable communities to cope with drought,” he added, highlighting the focus on sustainable agricultural practices.

Mr. Zhou Zhencheng, Minister Counselor from the People’s Republic of China, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to Kenya, mentioning the expanded bilateral relations between the two nations in various sectors, including socio-economic development. “The People’s Republic of China will continue supporting Kenya during such tough times as drought or floods,” he declared, reinforcing the partnership between the two countries.

The rice donation from China is a crucial step toward alleviating food insecurity in Kenya’s ASAL counties, impacting millions of people facing drought challenges. By building resilience and diversifying livelihoods, the Kenyan government aims to equip these communities to better cope with climate-related adversities. Ongoing support from international partners like China is essential for enhancing food security and community resilience in vulnerable regions.

Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke