Lamu County Governor Issa Timamy has won the International Averted Disaster Award 2024 by the World Bank Hub.
The award was issued in recognition of the Lamu County Emergency Operation Center.
A press release from the World Bank hub indicated that the emergency center was recognized for its exemplary locally led initiatives.
Additionally, the awarding organization highlighted the crucial connection between risk information and responsive action.
The 2024 Averted Disaster Award winners were announced at the Understanding Risk Global Forum 2024, held in Himeji, Japan on June 19, 2024.
Also Read: Young Kenyan CEO Emerges Second Best in Africa Awards
Why Lamu was Selected
According to World Bank, the Lamu County Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) averted at least five major disasters since its inception in 2016.
Additionally, between October and December 2023, the center played a key role in helping the community during severe flooding and a cholera outbreak.
The flooding followed what the World Bank described as the worst drought in four decades.
“In response to heavy rainfall advisories issued by the Kenyan Meteorological Department, the EOC undertook extensive preparatory measures.
“These included disseminating tailored information to the community, identifying and stocking 12 evacuation centers, evacuating 4,900 at-risk families (approximately 18,000 people), and relocating 20,000 livestock and property to higher ground,
“This challenge was effectively addressed by mobilizing support for additional shelters and supplies from national and international agencies. Remarkably, no human or animal lives were lost during the floods,” explained the press release.
Also Read: Central Bank Governor Wins Prestigious International Award
Governor Issa Receives Praises for Award
Following the announcement, Trade Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano praised the governor for the achievement.
Miano said that the governor had put Kenya on the global map because of the fete.
“Hearty congratulations to Governor Issa Timamy and Lamu County for bagging the prestigious International Averted Disaster Award 2024 by World Bank Hub.
“You have put Kenya ???????? on the Global map. Your outstanding disaster risk management intervention has made an extraordinary impact on the community and future generations,” said Miano.
Other finalists in the Award included Jamaica, Turkey, Southern African region and India.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel for real-time news updates!
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaB3k54HltYFiQ1f2i2C
