131,450 p****e displaced by floods – Gov’t

The government has confirmed that over 100,000 people have been displaced by the ongoing flood crisis in the country.

Through its spokesperson, Isaac Mwaura, the State says over 24,000 households have been affected by the menace witnessed across several counties.

"The floods have submerged numerous settlements, displacing 24,196 households comprising approximately 131,450 people and endangering others. To address this, the government, in collaboration with its humanitarian partners, including the Red Cross, has set up 50 camps across the country.

"The government is also identifying higher grounds to house the displaced people temporarily. Kenyans residing in flood-prone areas, especially along riparian areas and along river banks, are advised to seek safer alternatives for immediate habitation," Mwaura said.

The State also gave the number of people who have lost their lives in the last few hours.

"Since the onset of these rains, beginning March 1, 2024, we deeply regret to announce the tragic loss of an additional six lives in the last 12 hours, bringing the total to 76.

"The government sends its sincere condolences to their families and loved ones. 29 Kenyans have been injured, and 19 missing persons have been reported. Nairobi is currently experiencing the highest impact, with a significant death toll of 32 and 16,909 households displaced.

"The Kenya Coast Guard, National Police Service, and Kenya Defense Forces are collaborating to step up search and rescue services," it added.

Roads affected

The ongoing flood crisis has also affected several public utilities, including roads and other installations. Sections of various roads have been affected across the country: 10km of the Modogashe-Habaswein Road, 15km of the Modika-Dadaab Road, 1km of the North Horr-Kalacha Road, 10km of the Namanga-Amboseli Road, 20km of the Isinya-Konza Road, 20km of the Kamukuru-Elnagata Road, 20km of the Elnagata-Kajiado Road, and 3km of the Oltepesi-Magadi Road,the government said.

"All the dams under the seven fork dams are now at total capacity, and there is a prediction of a massive overflow downstream within the next 24 hours. Residents in these areas are advised to move to higher grounds," the statement added, concerning the state of several dams.

There is a high probability that the current crisis will lead to the emergence and spread of water-borne diseases.

"In further preparation to tackle a possible outbreak of water and vector-borne diseases, the Ministry of Health has activated a National Public Health Emergency Operation Centre at Kenyatta National Hospital to address health concerns. At the moment, there are no reported cases of any disease outbreak," the government's statement added.

Mwaura further said that the government has initiated the distribution of food and non-food items to affected areas. Boats have been deployed to assist in rescue operations and facilitate transportation in areas where roads are inaccessible.