By John Kariuki

The Principal Secretary for ASALs and Regional Development, Hon. Kello Harsama, has reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to enhancing drought disaster resilience through strategic partnerships with regional bodies.

Hon. Harsama, alongside Cabinet Secretary Beatrice Askul Moe, held a high-level discussion with H.E. Mohamed Ware, the Deputy Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). The meeting focused on the implementation of the IGAD Drought Disaster Resilience and Sustainability Initiative (IDDRSI) in Kenya, evaluating ongoing resilience-building efforts, and identifying new avenues for cooperation.

This engagement aligns with IGAD’s broader strategic efforts to fortify regional resilience against drought-related disasters. The discussions emphasized the need for sustainable solutions to mitigate the impact of climate change and safeguard the livelihoods of communities in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs).

Kenya, as a key member of IGAD, continues to prioritize regional collaboration and policy-driven initiatives to enhance drought preparedness, response, and long-term resilience. Through IDDRSI, the country seeks to strengthen sustainability frameworks that will benefit both local communities and the wider East African region.

Hon. Harsama reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to working with IGAD and other regional stakeholders to ensure a more resilient future for communities vulnerable to the devastating effects of drought.