Unveiling the New Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and Multi-Purpose Hall in Mandera County

Mandera County, nestled in the northeastern part of Kenya, is a region marked by its unique geographical challenges and resilient communities. Bordered by Ethiopia to the north, the Somali Republic to the east, and Wajir County to the south and southwest, Mandera spans an impressive 25,991.5 km2. Despite its vast size, the county’s sparse population of 867,457 according to the 2019 census, faces significant hurdles in accessing essential resources.

The Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) has been a steadfast ally to the people of Mandera since the late nineties, initially responding to the devastating El Niño floods of 1997. Today, the Mandera County branch, one of three in the North-Eastern region, continues to uphold this legacy. Situated opposite the County Commissioner’s residence and behind the Granada Hotel, the branch is a hub of humanitarian efforts, led by a county coordinator and an elected committee.

The branch boasts a team of 5 dedicated staff members, over 2684 well-trained professionals, and committed grassroots members and volunteers. At the county level, KRCS is an active member of the County Steering Group, Mandera Gender Technical Working Group (MGTWG), Livestock Technical Working Group, Health Partner Technical Working Group, and Wescord, among others. Operating through community-based response units across Mandera’s six constituencies; Mandera East, Mandera North, Banisa, Mandera West, Lafey, and Mandera South, KRCS is embedded in the fabric of local life.

Over the years, working as an auxiliary to both the national and county governments, the partnerships and collaboration efforts have enabled the teams to reduce risks, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and increase the community resilience of Mandera populations facing hazards such as droughts, floods, epidemics, man- made disasters, radicalization, displacement, and conflict.

The launch of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and a multipurpose hall, marks a pivotal moment in Mandera’s journey towards resilience. Supported by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) through the Branch Organizational Capacity Assessment (BOCA), these facilities are not just buildings; they are lifelines. The EOC is designed to be the nerve center of disaster management in Mandera. In a county where droughts, floods, epidemics, insecurities, and conflicts are common, a centralized hub for emergency coordination is crucial. The EOC will ensure that responses to crises are swift, organized, and effective. It will facilitate seamless communication between various agencies and stakeholders, enabling better resource management and faster relief to those in need.

The multipurpose hall is a community asset. Equipped with modern facilities, including conference tables, office furniture, projectors, air conditioning, and a robust IT and audio setup, the hall will host emergency

operations meetings, training sessions, community meetings, and other events. It will be a venue where ideas are exchanged, skills are developed, and community bonds are strengthened.

As a strategic hub, it will be equipped with advanced logistical capabilities, a well-coordinated human resource team, and a large-scale warehouse. The integration of these elements will enhance the branch’s ability to effectively support cross-border communities. With improved infrastructure, the branch will be able to provide timely and efficient responses to community needs, ensuring that essential services are delivered without delay.

The development of this hub underscores the society’s dedication to fostering resilience and well-being in cross-border regions, addressing both immediate humanitarian needs and long-term development goals. By bolstering the branch’s operational capacity, the society aims to create a sustainable and responsive support system for these communities, contributing to a more stable and secure environment for all those it serves.

The story of Mandera exudes resilience and with the launch of the Emergency Operations Center and multipurpose hall, Kenya Red Cross Society is not just responding to crises; it is building a foundation for a stronger, more resilient future. These facilities symbolize a continuous commitment to empowering communities, enhancing preparedness, and ensuring that Mandera’s people can face any challenge with confidence and strength.

Grace Waigumo

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