Drought in Tana River persists leaving locals in jaws of death

More than 50,000 people are facing death in Tana River County due to the persistent drought that has ravaged most parts of arid and semi-arid region.

Governor Hussein Dado has warned that the figure might rise if the current humanitarian situation will not be complemented by rainfall.

In an interview with the Sunday Nation, Mr Dado appealed to the national government, donors communities and other well-wishers to help alleviate the situation.

"Let us not wait until we hear reports of deaths. Already my people are faced with starvation and as the county government we have done our best with the little resources we have.

"We appeal for urgent aid from the national government and our development partners," he said.

Mr Dado said they last experienced such drought in 1984 that compelled residents of Bura and Galole constituencies to migrate to Garsen in search of food.

He said his government has suspended pending projects and diverted the funds towards drought mitigation.

The county has spent Sh250 million on water trucking and Sh160 million on buying relief food.

Governor Dado said the situation is worsening since many livestock have died and the growth of many crops has failed, living residents with less food alternatives.

"The River Tana, which is relied on for farming, has dried up and everywhere you go you will see carcasses strewed all over. The situation is worrying everybody,” Mr Dado added.

He urged the State to release the relief food consignment to feed the locals.