Kenya declared that it will remain extra vigilant in the wake of rains leading to flooding that has paralysed movements in the major cities in recent weeks.
In a press statement, Dr. Isaac Mwaura, the government spokesperson, stated that although both the national and local governments are capable of carrying out the duties entrusted to them by nature, human error has sadly resulted in the suffering that people are currently experiencing.
Dr. Mwaura notes that both natural and human-caused factors contributed to the disaster, including inhabitants’ negligent solid waste management and encroachment on riparian areas, especially in Nairobi.
“We are aware that having come earlier than normally expected most of the farmers were caught unawares and we urge them to act fast and begin planting so as to benefit from the long rains season,” the press release reads in part.
He bemoans the fact that some people are reportedly still missing while others are recovering in hospitals and declares the twin governments’ commitment to provide them with full support to achieve recovery for the missing and pay hospital bills and burial costs for the deceased.
According to a government source, the floods caused over 9,033 people to be affected nationwide, with Nairobi having the most displaced people, followed by Migori, Makueni, and Kisumu counties.
Nairobi continues to be the most seriously hit, with residential estates inundated and vital transportation arteries rendered impassable by massive silt deposits exacerbated by the ongoing torrential rains that followed the onset of the actual MAM season rains.
The report further warns that, save for Marsabit, Isiolo, Wajir, Mandera, and Tana River counties, where significant rainfall effects would only be seen in some areas, all other counties are still of concern, and county governments are urged to stay vigilant.
People living in these counties are advised to watch out for flash floods and poor visibility for both road and air transportation.
“Avoid driving through or walking across fast-moving voluminous waters or sheltering under trees or near grilled windows to minimise exposure to lightning strikes,” the advisory cautions.