Gov’t consults mitigating drought impacts in pastoralist areas
Governmental agencies along with pastoralists will consult on the ways to mitigate the impacts of drought in Afar and Somali regions as well as Borena zone in Oromia region.
The consultation is expected to be conducted during the 18th edition of Pastoralists’ Day to be held in Adama on January 25.
Roba Turchie, Deputy Head of Oromia Irrigation and Pastoral Development Bureau said in a press conference on Monday: “The drought in Borena zone lasted for six months and it would persist for the next two months.”
Some 6,398 children, 9,078 women and 2,226 elderly people are among thousands facing severe health problems associated with malnutrition following drought caused by lack of rain in Borena, Oromia region.
Emergency food support to the zone has been provided, according to Roba. “Extensive activities have been undertaken to utilize underground water,” he said.
The government will continue exploiting surface and underground water resources, Aisha Mohammed (Engineer), Minister of Pastoralist and Lowland Development.
