Wambora launches Embu disaster centre project

Embu Governor Martin Wambora leads the ground breaking ceremony for the building of the county's disaster response centre on January 28, 2020. The centre will train disaster management workers. PHOTO | GEORGE MUNENE | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • The centre will comprise a modern fire station, hydrants and accommodation for emergency cases.
  • It will also train disaster management workers and host a newly-created disaster management directorate.
  • The governor said it is important to develop standard procedures for various types of disasters.

The Embu County government is setting up a disaster management centre which will respond to distress calls from across the region.

Some Sh15 million has been set aside for the first phase of the project.

The centre will comprise a modern fire station, hydrants and accommodation for emergency cases.

It will also train disaster management workers and host a newly-created disaster management directorate.

"Our people have been suffering due to lack of adequate facilities to handle disasters but the problem will be history once the project is completed," said Governor Martin Wambora.

RESPOND TO EMERGENCIES

Speaking on Tuesday during the ground-breaking ceremony for the building of the centre in Embu town, Mr Wambora said his administration is determined to ensure the project is completed.

He said the centre will respond to disasters and emergencies when they arise.

The governor said it is important for the county to be prepared to minimise the impact of disasters.

He praised the county’s fire and enforcement department for its efforts in saving lives despite the meagre resources available.

"The department is committed and I'm happy with the good work it does," he said.

The governor said it is important to develop standard procedures for various types of disasters.

"Once developed, these procedures should be updated regularly,” Mr Wambora said.

He pledged to allocate more resources and ensure better preparedness and a stronger response.