Kisii County Government will now be able to access KShs.50milion in emergency funds following the passage of the Emergency Fund bill 2015 by the county assembly on Wednesday.
Governor Ongwae while assenting to the bill in the presence of County Assembly Speaker Kerosi Ondieki and the members of the house business committee this morning said it was necessary to have the legislation in place to enable the County Government provide relief to victims of the ongoing El Nino rains and other natural disasters. He commended the Members of the County Assembly for their commitment in alleviating the plight of the county residents by being steadfast in passing legislation that improves livelihoods.
The passage of the bill comes against a backdrop of recent calamities that have seen five lives lost in the ongoing heavy rains.
MCAs were unanimous in their support for the bill urging the county government to move swiftly to emergencies.
Minority leader Ombasa Apepo urged the County Government to invest in water harvesting techniques during this season.
Riana MCA Philip Motonu said River Iyabe in his ward had burst its banks and collapsed toilets urging the County Government to move with speed to salvage the situation.
Other MCAs lamented on the deaths witnessed following lightning strike urging the County Government to purchase thunder arrestors for several schools across the wards.
Ichuni Ward MCA Aburi said there was a deep gulley in Keumbu which must be filled immediately to avoid any disaster.
The Emergency Fund bill that now awaits gazettment makes provision for the establishment of the County Emergency Fund.
The funds will be available in the event of a situation that threatens serious damage to human welfare, environment or in the event there is war or terrorism activity that threatens serious damage to the security within the County.
Situations that threaten damage to human welfare provided under the act are those that may cause loss of human life, human illness or injury, homelessness, damage to property, disruption of a supply of money, food, water, energy or fuel.] Disruption of carriage and transportation also qualify for assistance under the act. The funds will be administered by the Chief Executive Committee Member of Finance. Governor Ongwae praised the MCAs for being active in their legislative role that has seen them pass over 30 pieces of legislation. The Governor noted that Kisii County Assembly is among the top counties singled out for passage of quality bills.
