Kenya Receives Sh360 Million Rice Donation From China to Enhance Food Security
Kenya has received a Sh360 million rice donation from China to aid 2.8 million people in ASAL counties facing food insecurity due to low rainfall and drought recovery. The initiative emphasizes community resilience and alternative livelihoods while strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.
The Government of Kenya has received a substantial donation of rice valued at Sh360 million from the People’s Republic of China, aimed at providing assistance to over 2.8 million individuals in 23 Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) Counties. This donation seeks to enhance food security in regions that are increasingly vulnerable due to insufficient rainfall expected between March and June, alongside the aftermath of the prolonged drought experienced from 2021 to 2023.
During the launch of this initiative held in Kumpa, Kajiado Central, the Cabinet Secretary for East African Community, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands & Regional Development, Beatrice Askul, highlighted the significance of enhancing resilience in communities to combat the adverse effects of climate change. She encouraged the ASAL communities to explore alternative livelihoods to better withstand prolonged periods of drought, stating, ‘We have received 40,000 bags of rice to assist communities in ASAL areas who are facing drought due to below normal rainfall.’
Cabinet Secretary Askul expressed gratitude towards the Chinese government for its unwavering support to Kenya during challenging times. She emphasized the necessity of acquiring financial and technical assistance from development partners to bolster food security and enhance community livelihoods. Meanwhile, Principal Secretary for ASAL and Regional Development, Mr. Kello Harsama, reiterated the importance of developing community resilience through programs such as constructing dams and boreholes, which will facilitate local food production.
Mr. Harsama noted that ASAL counties often suffer the most during droughts, remarking, ‘We have embarked on resilience programs including building dams and sinking boreholes in ASAL counties to enable residents to grow crops that will boost food security. We are investing heavily in water and smart agriculture and pastoralism.’
Minister Counselor Mr. Zhou Zhencheng of the People’s Republic of China reaffirmed his country’s ongoing commitment to support Kenya, particularly during adversities like droughts and floods. He remarked, ‘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.’
In summary, the rice donation from China underscores international cooperation to bolster food security in Kenya’s ASAL regions, which are increasingly vulnerable to climate change. Officials emphasize the importance of developing resilience among communities and diversifying livelihoods to mitigate the impact of future droughts. This partnership illustrates the commitment of both nations to support one another during challenging times.
Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke
