The government has kicked off massive distribution of face masks in Busia County.
The exercise was launched by the area County Commissioner (CC), Joseph Kanyiri with flood victims in various camps in Bunyala Sub County taking the first priority.
Speaking during commencement of the exercise at Namalo Primary school camp on Friday, Kanyiri urged the beneficiaries to adhere to the Ministry of Health guidelines on combating Covid- 19.
“We have been advised to wash hands and wear face masks to prevent infection by the disease,” he said, adding that there was need to observe social distance.
He explained that there were different types of masks and urged the flood victims to wear them at all times.
The CC advised the residents to take the other precautions spelt out by the government with the seriousness that it deserves, adding that the County had confirmed two coronavirus positive cases.
Kanyiri expressed confidence that all persons displaced by floods especially those residing in the camps will be reached at the conclusion of the exercise.
Among the camps visited were Busagwa, Bubango, St. Cecilia Namenya Primary and Secondary schools, John Osogo Secondary, Port Victoria and Bumadeya Primary schools.
More than 45,000 residents of Bunyala Sub County have been displaced by floods and are residing at 73 temporary camps, mostly in public schools within the area.
Last week, Devolution Cabinet Secretary, Eugene Wamalwa launched distribution of food and non-food items to the victims.
The Kenya Red Cross Society and other well-wishers have also offered support to the displaced persons living in the camps.
The CC was accompanied by the County Security team as well as Bunyala Sub County and National Government Administrative Officers.
By Salome Alwanda
