MAKUENI TURNS TO TECHNOLOGY TO STRENGTHEN EXTREME WEATHER RESPONSE, PRIORITIZE ROAD REPAIRS. 

Makueni County is turning to satellite imagery, mapping data and rainfall records to identify roads that should receive priority for repair, in efforts to strengthen its response to extreme weather affecting its roads network.

The system will assess factors including population served, agricultural land use, flood and drainage risks, terrain, and proximity to essential services and markets such as schools, health facilities and trading centres.

The initiative, supported by Israeli technology company Anyways Solutions through the Embassy of Israel in Kenya, was discussed Tuesday in Wote during a meeting on a proposed memorandum of understanding between the county and its partners.

Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. said the technology would improve Makueni’s climate resilience and capacity to respond to extreme weather, particularly with El Niño rains expected later this year.He thanked Israel for its continued partnership with the county and said Makueni was also exploring opportunities to export its fruit produce to the Israeli market.

The meeting was attended by Arnon Arbel, Minister for Economic Affairs and Head of the Israel Economic and Trade Mission in Kenya.The proposed MoU will provide a framework for implementing the technology and deepening cooperation between Makueni County and Israeli partners.