Mandera County is ramping up its drought mitigation efforts as the region grapples with severe water shortages caused by persistent drought. The county government has initiated a series of interventions to alleviate the crisis and build long-term resilience against climate change.
A key initiative currently underway is the drilling of boreholes in Mandera West and Banisa sub-counties. These boreholes aim to provide an immediate water source to communities struggling with water scarcity. Governor Mohamed Khalif has also announced an ambitious plan to drill 20 additional emergency boreholes across the county to further address the growing demand for water.
Speaking on the situation, Governor Khalif reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling the crisis head-on. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with development partners and donors to enhance the county’s resilience against recurring droughts. The governor stressed that sustainable solutions, such as improved water infrastructure and long-term conservation efforts, are necessary to ensure water security for Mandera’s residents.
In addition to these measures, Governor Khalif has called on the national government to provide urgent support to the county as drought conditions persist. He highlighted the need for additional resources, including water trucking services and relief supplies, to sustain affected communities until more permanent solutions are implemented.
The drought has had severe consequences for local livelihoods, particularly for pastoralist communities who rely on water sources for their livestock. With pastures drying up and water points becoming scarce, many residents have been forced to travel long distances in search of water, exacerbating the crisis.
The Mandera County government remains dedicated to implementing sustainable solutions that not only address the immediate water shortages but also build resilience against future climate-related challenges. Through continued investment in water infrastructure, partnerships with development agencies, and appeals for national support, the county aims to mitigate the effects of recurrent drought and safeguard the well-being of its residents.
As drought conditions worsen, stakeholders across different levels of government and civil society must work together to provide lasting solutions that ensure communities in Mandera County have reliable access to clean and sufficient water.
