By Reporter
The Lamu County Government has initiated the establishment of disaster management clubs in schools to enhance preparedness and response to emergencies.
The initiative which has so far roped in 19 schools from the Hindi Ward region, seeks to establish a culture of quick responses and early interventions to disasters within schools in the event of calamities such flash floods, fires and disaster risk reduction.
Speaking during the Trainers of Trainers workshop held in Hindi, Ms. Khadija Fumo Chief Officer of Public Service Management, emphasized the need for early interventions in school settings through the students especially in schools within the Boni area which are not as accessible to the public to aid in disaster intervention responses.
“By engaging schools early, we’re not only preventing disasters but nurturing responsible citizens who understand lawful ways to express dissent and demand their rights,” Ms. Fumo noted.
She further said that the county government will be considering factoring in its annual budget funding to aid in facilitating the training and facilitation of students who will be earmarked as disaster response interventionists within their respective schools in collaboration with the Kenya Coast Guard and World Vision.
Further reiterating her sentiments, Shee Kupi Director of Peace Building stated that the initiative aims to equip students and school staff with the knowledge and skills necessary to mitigate the impact of disasters.
“The clubs will focus on disaster risk reduction, emergency response training, and promoting a culture of safety within the school environment,” Kupi said.
He further said that the establishment of these clubs aligns with the national policy for disaster management, which emphasizes the importance of mainstreaming disaster risk reduction in various sectors, including education.
“The clubs will serve as platforms for students to learn about potential hazards in their local areas, develop practical skills for responding to emergencies, and participate in drills and simulations,” Charles Kilonzo World Vision Lamu coordinator said.
He further said that the clubs will foster collaboration between schools, community members, and relevant government agencies to ensure a coordinated approach to disaster management.
“This program couldn’t have come at a better time,” Mengo, patron of Hindi Secondary School stated, adding that students in Lamu face real risks, with there being a need for such an initiative to avert future risks.
Sentiments echoed by Walter Waswa a teacher from Lakeside Mixed School, who stated that the training will enable the institutionalization of Saint Johns Ambulance Clubs within schools which can further serve their respective communities in cases where there are emergencies.
