Kenyans residing in flood-prone areas given 48 hours to shift
Kenyans residing in flood-prone regions have been directed to move to safer grounds within 48 hours.
In a Cabinet Despatch on Tuesday, April 30, the government ordered people living in regions adjacent to dams, water reservoirs and riparian lands along rivers which are susceptible to mudslides and landslides to evacuate before Thursday, April 2.
The government has assured support for the evacuation process, including the provision of temporary shelters and essential supplies for those in need.
"The Cabinet directed that all members of the public residing within these risky areas are required to move out within 48 hours. These include areas near dams and other water reservoirs in public or private land, areas prone to mudslides and landslides and riparian lands along rivers and other water courses across the country," the statement read in part.
According to the despatch, and reports from the Meteorological Department, the country is expected to endure continued heavy rainfall with flooding. The saturated soil conditions, coupled with forecasts of prolonged precipitation, pose a significant threat to public safety and infrastructure.
The government has also said that individuals who refuse to comply with the directive will be relocated forcibly to ensure their safety.
Flood response teams
National Government Administration officers (NGAO) will collaborate with county governments and humanitarian organizations to facilitate the evacuation process efficiently and compassionately.
The National Disaster Operations Centre (NDOC) has been tasked with coordinating the efforts of various government agencies, development partners, and humanitarian organizations to ensure a cohesive response nationwide.
Security agencies, with assistance from the National Youth Service, will enforce the evacuation directive to safeguard lives and property.
The Cabinet also highlighted the alarming rise in water levels at Masinga and Kiambere dams, surpassing historical records.
The downstream effects, particularly in Garissa and Tana River counties, are anticipated to exacerbate the already dire situation, necessitating urgent action.
Furthermore, in Nairobi, where informal settlements along the Nairobi River have been severely impacted, residents within the 30-meter riparian corridor have been instructed to vacate within the stipulated timeframe.
To address long-term housing needs, the Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing, and Urban Development has been directed to expedite the rollout of social housing initiatives, prioritizing those displaced from riparian areas.
Additionally, plans are underway to create a 30-meter planning corridor along the main rivers in Nairobi to accommodate future development projects.
Gov't to doctors
Earlier, the government requested striking doctors and other health workers to resume duties to aid citizens affected by the ongoing flooding.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura told the health workers to prioritize the flood victims instead of financial interests during these dark times.
"The government will cater for all their hospital bills and wishes them a quick recovery. The government appeals to doctors and other health workers to resume their services to assist their fellow citizens and not to prioritize financial interests during this emergency," Mwaura stated.
