ActionAid International Kenya (AAIK) marked World Humanitarian Day on August 19, 2024, by celebrating the dedication and selflessness of humanitarian workers in Baringo County and across the country. The event brought together key stakeholders to discuss achievements, challenges, and opportunities in the humanitarian sector, aiming to serve better vulnerable communities impacted by disasters.
A forum in Kabarnet included representatives from the national and county governments, parastatals, non-governmental organizations, civil society, human rights defenders, and the media. Together, they reflected on humanitarian progress in Baringo County and shared insights on the path forward. Baringo County Governor, Benjamin Cheboi, who graced the event paid tribute to humanitarian workers for their compassion, empathy, and solidarity.
“Today, we honor the dedication and sacrifice of humanitarian workers who have committed themselves to this noble cause. We also reflect on our collective responsibility to support and protect the most vulnerable among us,” Cheboi remarked.
He acknowledged the various challenges Baringo County has faced—prolonged droughts, floods, intercommunity conflicts, and landslides—that have claimed lives and livelihoods. He expressed gratitude to the humanitarian community for their continued efforts, including providing emergency food distribution, establishing water points, and offering resources that have improved the well-being of
local communities.
“The boreholes, water pans, food, and financial assistance you’ve given have played an important role in tackling the climate crisis, strengthening disaster risk reduction, and coordinating humanitarian activities. Your contributions to peacebuilding, governance, and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) are essential in uplifting our communities. As a government, we cannot do this alone due to limited capacity,” the governor added. Governor Cheboi also urged the people of Baringo to remain vigilant, especially with the ongoing landslides in the region, to reduce loss of life and suffering.
Other organizations that joined AAIK in celebrating World Humanitarian Day included the National Government, Baringo County Government, National Drought Management Authority, GiveDirectly, PeaceNet, UNICEF, Save the Children, World Vision, Kenya Red Cross Society, and Kenya Television Network (KTN), among others.