State condemns attack on Kenya Red Cross in Baringo

The government has warned politicians against fanning violence in Baringo County.

State House Spokesperson Manoah Esipisu asked county leaders to work with locals to maintain security in the region.

His remarks comes one day after Kenya Red Cross Society suspended its operations in the county after residents harassed its staff and volunteers.

The residents also looted relief food meant for Kapedo and Lomelo areas in Turkana County.

“We are appealing to locals and leaders to stop harassing individuals who are giving out humanitarian assistance,” said Mr Esipisu while addressing journalists at Kakamega State Lodge on Sunday.

He assured locals that the government has beefed up security in the region.

“For the past two days no incidence has been reported in the county. Security agents are keeping vigil,” he said.

Baringo County is affected by both drought and conflict.

Kenya Red Cross has been supporting residents with monthly cash transfer, non-food items and medical outreaches in Baringo North, Baringo South and Tiaty sub counties.

On drought, Mr Esipisu said the government has doubled up feeding programme to ensure all people affected by drought are reached.

He said a programme to purchase affected livestock from farmers as well as procuring goats and sheep is on.

He said the livestock are slaughtered and meat given to locals while the rest are sold to Kenya Meat Commission

“The project is aimed at insulating farmers against possible losses due to scarcity of water and pasture and allow them to re-stock after the long rain season starts,” he said.