Herders in Samburu County have been told to offload their healthy animals before the drought sets in to avoid weather-inflicted losses.

Addressing the press after chairing the County Steering Group meeting in Maralal town, Samburu Deputy Governor Gabriel Lenengwesi appealed to the herders to offtake some of their livestock as part of mitigation efforts to cushion residents from the impacts of drought.

The DG noted that currently, livestock are in healthy condition and can fetch good prices and the proceeds will later be used to restock once the dry season ends.

“As Samburu people we value our livestock but I am making an honest appeal to all livestock farmers with huge herds to sell off some cows, goats and sheep and remain with a manageable herd instead of waiting and watching all of them deteriorate and die due to drought,” he said.

Lenengwesi said that some parts of Samburu North and Samburu East Sub Counties such as Waso, Ndoto, Nachola, Nyiro and Angata Nanyukie wards are already experiencing drought that has led to the deterioration of grazing fields.

“We are working closely with residents of these areas to ensure they follow the advice of the local grazing committees in order to ensure sustainable use of the remaining pasture,” he said.

National Drought Management Authority coordinator Josephat Lotwel observed that Samburu County will be at an alert stage of drought in January following poor short rains.

He noted that the CSG has put in place strategic plans with other stakeholders for mitigation efforts to combat drought.

“We are working with the relevant county government departments and we have activated the Rapid Results Initiatives at the ministry of water at the county level for quick response when drought strikes,” he said.

Samburu County Commissioner John Cheruiyot said that the security apparatus is on high alert and is ready to move in fast to stop intercommunal conflicts brought about by drought.

“For now there are no conflicts and we urge pastoral communities to maintain the current peace, but as the Samburu security team we are ready to avert any conflict that may arise,” the county commissioner said.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Robert Githu