State to help fire victims rebuild houses

By Maureen Mudi and Paul Gitau

The Government will launch a fire disaster fund to assist in reconstruction of new houses in Lamu, Prime Minister Raila Odinga has said.

Speaking at Faza Island in Lamu, accompanied by Tourism Minister Najib Balala, Raila yesterday said the island town would soon get a major facelift with modern roads and buildings.

"The Government’s decision to construct a second port in Lamu will bring immense benefits and boost the economy of the area," said Raila.

At the same time, the PM warned investors against buying land at low prices and later selling it at higher prices locally.

"Residents should not allow themselves to be used to enrich others," he cautioned.

He said the Kazi Kwa Vijana initiative would be used to boost youth activities by ensuring that they were involved in rebuilding the island.

The PM advised Lamu residents to take a lead role in the conservation of environment through protection of mangrove forests.

He asked leaders to be honest and work together instead of apportioning blame to the Government in the event of disaster.

More pledges for relief aid were made yesterday, with the Kenya Red Cross Society promising to construct 200 houses on the island.

Safaricom pledged Sh1.5 million, while business tycoons Amin Merali and Ali Punjani pledged Sh1 million and Sh2.5 million respectively.

Balala promised to donate Sh500,000. Oil Lamu Limited also pledged to donate Sh250,000.

Kisauni MP Ali Hassan Joho donated food and other items worth Sh3.5 million, while area MP and Fisheries Assistant Minister Abu Chiaba said he would give Sh500,000.

Mombasa Mayor Ahmed Mohdar and the Coast Parliamentary Group pledged Sh500,000 each.

Nominated MP Shakila Abdalah appealed to the Government to ensure the Lamu East DC was equipped to deliver.

Another Nominated MP, Mohamed Dor, called on the National Youth Service to be deployed to the area to do the reconstruction work.

 

 

Read all about: Prime Minister Raila Odinga Faza Island Najib Balala Kazi Kwa Vijana

 

 

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