Kenya Red Cross Enhances Disaster Response by Recruiting Local Volunteers in Garissa
The Kenya Red Cross is recruiting grassroots volunteers in Garissa County to enhance disaster response capabilities. This initiative aims to train local individuals in critical skills necessary for immediate assistance during humanitarian crises. Various leaders and officials have expressed support for the recruitment and emphasized the need for effective collaboration in addressing community needs during disasters.
The Kenya Red Cross is intensifying its recruitment of grassroots volunteers in Garissa County to improve disaster response. This initiative follows insights gained from previous emergencies, highlighting a need for local volunteers who can facilitate rapid interventions during humanitarian crises. The recruitment will see volunteers trained in essential skills such as first aid, disaster preparedness, and the dissemination of public information.
During an Iftar event held in Garissa, Northeastern Regional Coordinator Hassan Musa emphasized the critical role of local volunteers in areas susceptible to floods. He noted that the small number of volunteers available was a significant barrier to effective emergency response. The training provided will enable volunteers to quickly assess disaster situations and assist with food distribution efforts.
Mohamed Mohamud, an Assistant County Commissioner, called for additional training for local chiefs to work collaboratively with the newly recruited volunteers. He urged young individuals to engage in the recruitment process, highlighting that the acquired skills can enhance their employability in humanitarian sectors.
In response to the drought affecting the region, Garissa Branch Coordinator Daud Ahmed announced plans to distribute relief food to 640 households. The region has been under a prolonged dry spell, exacerbated by forecasted below-average rainfall during the upcoming long rains. Urgent measures are being implemented to address the effects of the drought on vulnerable populations.
ICRC representative Abdirahman Maalim Abdullahi indicated that humanitarian efforts would extend along the Kenya-Somalia border, supporting areas that have been largely neglected due to insecurity. Community leaders, including Ebla Hassan of the Garissa Farmers’ Network, praised the quick and effective responses of Kenya Red Cross volunteers during recent floods.
Hassan Sheikh Abdi from SUPKEM commended the organization for its responsiveness during emergencies, recounting the rescue of a family trapped during flooding. Local officials also recognized the Kenya Red Cross’s efforts, with Holugho Ward MCA Adow Omar urging the county government to enhance its humanitarian response by learning from the Red Cross’s operational model.
Overall, the collaborative effort among volunteers, government officials, and humanitarian organizations indicates a strong commitment to enhancing disaster preparedness and response in Garissa County, addressing the immediate needs of affected communities effectively and efficiently.
In conclusion, the recruitment of local volunteers by the Kenya Red Cross is a strategic initiative aimed at bolstering disaster response in Garissa County. With training provided in essential skills, these volunteers are expected to play a critical role during emergencies. The collective efforts of community leaders further underscore the necessity of effective disaster management strategies as the region faces significant challenges from both floods and drought.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
