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{
    "id": 256441,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/256441/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 27,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Mr. Kibaki",
    "speaker_title": "PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS His Excellency the President",
    "speaker": {
        "id": 43,
        "legal_name": "Emilio Mwai Kibaki",
        "slug": "mwai-kibaki"
    },
    "content": "Overall, there has been a significant improvement in the way of life of many Kenyans as a result of the economic and reform measures we have been implementing. Mr. Speaker, Sir, despite the improved economic situation, there are serious challenges that remain and we must all seek more innovative ways of sharing the growth, and ensuring that more of our people enjoy the benefits of increased production. Today, about five million people throughout the country are experiencing food shortages as a result of failed rains. As of now, the Government has spent over Kshs3.8 billion from its own Budget, Kshs1.2 billion from development partners and another Kshs210 million from voluntary contributions by Kenyans and well-wishers to feed the needy. I take this opportunity to thank all those who have generously responded to our appeal for assistance. Mr. Speaker, Sir, however, it is estimated that an additional Kshs6.3 billion is required up to the end of June to meet the increasing needs of the growing numbers of those affected by the famine. The Government will, therefore, be requesting supplementary appropriations to meet the additional requirements. I would like to add that despite the severity of the famine, we have not had to resort to massive importation of grain, as has often happened in the past. All the food being distributed so far has been sourced locally. This is a major boost to the farmers in the food-growing areas of our country. However, the available food stocks will not last beyond June this year. We are, therefore, making urgent arrangements to import additional grains to bridge the gap. Mr. Speaker, Sir, closely related to this is the severe water shortage facing populations in the drought-stricken areas. The Government has mobilised 20 water tankers, which are currently in operation in Mandera, Garissa and Wajir districts. The Government has also organised, together with the Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS), for an additional 50 water tankers. Twenty five of these have already arrived in the country, and will be deployed to Mandera, Wajir, Moyale and Marsabit districts. Furthermore, the Government has since last year drilled 162 bore holes and 221 pans in the drought-stricken districts to alleviate the severe water shortage. My Government has also earmarked Kshs1.5 billion this financial year that will be used to construct an additional 200 boreholes and 250 water pans by the end of this calender year."
}