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{
    "id": 1338020,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1338020/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 97,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Kisii County, WDM",
    "speaker_title": "Hon. Dorice Donya",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": "prone to flooding such as along river valleys and low-lying plains. While the advent of heavy rains may bring relief to our farmers who have suffered the devastating effects of prolonged drought, we must appreciate that without adequate preparedness, the El Nino rains could quickly turn into a disaster. History serves as a reminder of the havoc that El Nino can wreak on our country, based on its devastating effects during the last phenomenon in 1997 and 1998. We may recall that the last El Nino phenomenon resulted in flash floods, devastating landslides, building collapses, tragic loss of lives, and food insecurity. Therefore, there is urgent need for the country to put in place proper mechanisms to mitigate the devastating effects of heavy rains in order to capitalise on the expected El Nino season of plenty of rainfall to address the longstanding issue of drought in the country. With this background, it is necessary for the Government, through the relevant ministries, to put in place mechanisms for disseminating early warning systems to vulnerable communities, ensuring timely access to information, and sensitising citizens on best preparedness measures to respond to effects of El Nino . Further, the Government ought to develop and communicate clear and early action plans to forestall the devastating effects of ElNino on communities in high-risk areas as was witnessed in 1997 and 1998, including emergency relief, and support and protection of citizens during the phenomenon. Most importantly, I urge the Government to develop and implement strategies for harnessing excess rainwater to support long-term drought mitigation measures that include using the water to implement programmes in agriculture and afforestation. Thank you, Hon. Speaker."
}