By Collins Wanzallah
The Busia County Government, which is under Governor Paul Otuoma, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Red Cross Society of Kenya to enhance disaster response efforts. The Governor, who is the patron of the association in the county, expressed his commitment to disaster management through a statement read by Acting County Secretary Oscar Juma, who represented him at the signing ceremony.
“As the Patron of the Society in Busia, I wish to reiterate that we value this renewed working partnership and look forward to implementing and strengthening key focal areas in our agreement, including disaster risk management, mitigation and response, health, capacity building of affected communities, and warehouse services, among others,” said Otuoma.
He also endorsed the remarks made by the Head of Delegation and Red Cross Secretary General, Dr Ahmed Idris, who emphasised that the county’s disaster profile necessitates continued support for humanitarian services and disaster response initiatives.
The event, held in Busia Town, was attended by County Executive Committee Members Pamella Awori (Public Service), Douglas Okiring (Strategic Partnership), Andrew Nakitare (Public Works), and Andrew Meso (Water). Dr Idris was accompanied by Maurice Anyango (Head of West Kenya Region) and Raphael Amusala (Red Cross Busia County Chairperson), among other officers.
Dr Idris stated that the Red Cross Society is committed to working with the county in disaster management, particularly in areas like Budalangi, which are prone to flooding during the rainy season.
Meanwhile, Governor Otuoma reiterated that infrastructural development is key to the transformation of Busia Town. He noted that the expansion of the final stretch of the Kisumu-Busia road to the Kenya-Uganda border is progressing, with the construction of a proper drainage system to prevent flooding during heavy rains.
“One lane on the expanded road will be specifically dedicated to trucks to reduce the perennial traffic snarl-ups and promote trade at the border town,” Otuoma added.