Church leaders have issued a plea to the government, urging them to ramp up relief efforts for victims of the devastating floods ravaging the country.
The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) leaders, gathered at the 14th Regional Conference held at the Gitooro Pastoral Center in Meru, and held discussions about various issues gripping the country.
Among the key issues discussed was the devastating impact of ongoing floods in the country, which has tragically claimed the lives of over 250 Kenyans and displaced many others.
The delegates expressed deep concern for the affected families and called for intensified relief efforts to support those in distress.
They urged the government to take immediate action in providing emergency accommodation and relief to the victims, emphasizing the need for clear strategies to relocate citizens from flood-prone areas to prevent recurring disasters.
“We call upon the government to intensify the provision of relief and emergency accommodation to the affected families to bring their suffering to an end.”
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“Further, the national and county governments should come up with clear and enforceable strategies to relocate citizens from location that are at risk of flooding. No Kenyan should be affected by flooding year after year,” said the NCCK.
Call for Solidarity
In their plea to the government, the church leaders highlighted the biblical principle of dignified living for all individuals, emphasizing the need for resilient communities that enable people to lead dignified livelihoods.
They called upon all Kenyans to come together in solidarity to support their fellow citizens in times of crisis and hardship.
“While appreciating the efforts by the government to rescue those who have been marooned and those displaced, we call upon all Kenyans to participate in providing assistance to our brothers and sisters.” urged the NCCK.
The leaders also announced their commitment to collecting materials and funds through their congregations to provide relief and assistance to those affected by the floods.
Furthermore, they encouraged financial donations through the NCCK Paybill number 519900.
NCCK Calls for End to Doctors’ Strikes
In addition to the flood relief efforts, the conference addressed the pressing issue of the prolonged doctors’ strike, now in its 8th week.
They noted that the strike has raised major health concerns, particularly with the emergence of waterborne diseases like cholera in Tana River County due to contaminated water sources from the floods.
“On the back of the flooding disaster, there is an emerging outbreak of waterborne diseases, with the Ministry of Health confirming 34 cases of cholera in Tana River County.”
“The risk remains high as the floods have contaminated water sources with sewerage and other wastes.”
NCCK Push for Dialogue
Additionally, the delegates highlighted the critical need for dialogue between the medical workers and government officials so as to resolve the ongoing crisis promptly.
They emphasized the importance of ending the strike to ensure the well-being of Kenyans and prevent further suffering and health risks.
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“We call upon the doctors and the national and county governments to engage in meaningful dialogue to end the crisis.”
“The officials on both sides should take responsibility and step aside if they are unable to bring the suffering of Kenyans to an end.”
Nonetheless, the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU) on Wednesday, May 8 evening signed a return-to-work formula ending the doctors’ strike after 56 days.
The doctors came to an agreement following a meeting between the Ministry officials, Head of Public Service, National Advisory Council and the county government representatives.
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