Speaking at a distribution of Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) stationery to more than 200 centres across the county, Ottichilo said Vihiga is among Kenya’s most vulnerable counties to landslides and flash floods, a risk heightened by the forecast‑intense El Niño weather pattern expected in the coming weeks.
He singled out low‑lying areas, riverbanks and the hilly sections of Emuhaya, Hamisi and Sabatia sub‑counties, urging residents there to relocate before the rains arrive, adding, “Do not wait until disaster strikes.”
Motorists and other road users were cautioned to exercise extra care on slippery roads, where reduced visibility and slick surfaces could lead to a surge in traffic accidents during the rainy season.
Ottichilo assured the public that the county administration has activated its disaster‑management committee and deployed emergency response teams in all five sub‑counties, with machinery on standby and coordination underway with the Kenya Red Cross and other partners to ensure a swift response to any incident.
He instructed citizens to report any flood‑related incidents or accidents promptly through local chiefs, ward administrators or the county emergency hotline, emphasizing that rapid reporting will enable quicker assistance.
During the same event, the governor addressed ECDE teachers, pledging phased salary increments as recommended by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission, despite budget constraints, and announced plans to upgrade infrastructure in public ECDE centres and launch a feeding programme aimed at boosting enrolment and retention.
Ottichilo concluded by reiterating the seriousness of the impending rains and urging collective vigilance, noting that preparedness and community cooperation are essential to safeguard lives and property in Vihiga.