Kenya Faces More Deaths and Displacements Amid Ongoing Floods

Since March, Kenya has been experiencing exceptionally heavy rainfall, resulting in severe floods causing devastation across the country. This has tragically led to loss of life, displacement of people, destruction of farmlands, and the looming threat of famine in this East African nation.

The regions most severely impacted include the western areas near Uganda, central areas including Nairobi, and the eastern areas bordering the Indian Ocean.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has forecasted more rainfall in the upcoming days, urging citizens to prepare for potential disasters and prioritize their safety.

President William Ruto claims that the government is well-prepared to handle the crisis, despite recent fatalities and damages caused by the floods.

He assured, “We are equipped to deal with the challenges we are facing. We have already stockpiled food supplies and are providing assistance to those displaced. Nearly 10,000 individuals in Nairobi alone have been displaced by the floods,” President Ruto stated in a televised address, mentioning the active involvement of his deputy in response efforts to mitigate flood effects.

He further mentioned the establishment of a 24-hour disaster monitoring center by the government.

“Our analysis and expert opinions indicate a gradual reduction in rainfall intensity, but we remain vigilant and committed to monitoring the situation to address any emergencies that may arise,” he assured.

In the early hours of Monday morning, floodwaters from a blocked railway tunnel burst, sweeping through villages and affecting stranded traffic from the previous evening near Nairobi.

Reports from Kenya’s Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua confirm 71 casualties from the floods, with 90 individuals reported missing and 110 hospitalized at Naivasha Hospital.

Search and rescue operations are ongoing in the Mai Mahiu area, where homes and vehicles were swept away, necessitating Kenya Defense Forces’ involvement in the response.

In Tana River County, a boat tragedy claimed seven lives, with several others rescued or missing as floods disrupted the Nairobi-Garissa route, prompting the temporary use of boats until a government ban was enforced.

In Nairobi, slum residents affected by floods criticized both county and national governments for what they perceive as neglect, resorting to makeshift shelters in schools.

Nickson Omondi, a resident of Mathare slums, voiced frustration over the lack of adequate government assistance following the loss of his son in the floods.

Kicking off the second school term, Kenya’s Education Cabinet Secretary delayed school openings, inconveniencing many students and parents who were prepared to return.

Internal Security Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki ordered inspections of dams and reservoirs, emphasizing compulsory evacuations of endangered individuals to prevent further fatalities.

Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen reported a death toll of 300 due to the floods, while official government figures stand at 169 casualties, prompting the displacement of over 190,000 individuals nationwide.

Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura noted the dire situation in Nairobi, where over 147,000 individuals have been displaced, leading to the setup of additional displacement camps for temporary housing.