Region Allots 30mln Birr to Support Drought Affected Residents in Borena

ADDIS ABABA – Over 30 million Birr has been allocated by Oromia regional state as part of a response to the drought that affected communities in Borena Zone of the region.

Low-rainfall induced drought is having devastating consequences on livelihoods of at least 166, 000 people residents of Borena with many in the area relying on livestock herding and subsistence farming.

Head of Oromia Disaster Risk Management Commission, Geremu Olika, told state-run Press Agency that the regional administration is working for the drought is promptly addressed  before its effect worsens.

About 30 million birr has been allocated by the region to support the response, he said, adding 20 million Birr of the total amount will be used for the provision of food while the rest is to be spent on fodder.

Fifteen tankers are also permanently assigned for water supply the Zone, the commissioner added.

The federal disaster management commission has already distributed a first round of 27, 900 quintal of food assistance to the people in need of immediate support in the area, which officials said, is prone to recurring droughts and consequent loss of livestock.

More assistance will continue to reach Borena, it said, together with rehabilitating the residents.