One dead as perimeter wall collapses in Ruaka

One person has died after a residential perimeter wall collapsed in Ruaka, Kiambaa Sub-County, in Kiambu County.

The collapse is believed to be a result of heavy rains in the region.

Kiambu County Governor, Kimani Wamatangi, visited the scene on Monday morning and confirmed the incident.

Resident expected to vacate

He announced that residents of the affected area must vacate their homes while authorities conduct investigations to ensure the structural safety of the buildings.

"No one will live in these houses until we complete investigations and determine that they are safe for occupancy," Governor Wamatangi said.

"We have given you two hours to collect your essential belongings from your houses, after which we will seal them," he added.

Three people sustained injuries during the wall collapse, and the incident is part of a broader impact of ongoing heavy rains across various regions.

These rains have caused widespread damage and disruption. Heavy downpours on Saturday night caused severe flooding in Kitengela town and surrounding areas, leading to significant traffic congestion on the Nairobi-Namanga road, with feeder roads becoming impassable.

The flooding has been attributed to clogged drainage systems, which have caused anger among residents.

The rains have also caused issues in other counties. On Sunday, the Athi River overflowed its banks due to heavy rains, leading to dire situations in Kinanie, Machakos County. According to the Kenya Red Cross Society, 14 people, including 10 adults and 4 children, had to be rescued following the flooding.

Additionally, 11 people were rescued after a boat capsized on Lake Baringo while travelling from Salabani to Kokwa Island, with five people still missing.

In Nairobi County, Governor Johnson Sakaja announced measures to address the effects of the heavy rains.

A press release from his office assured city residents that the county is working with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) to ensure roads are passable, and various emergency response teams have been deployed to manage the flooding in affected areas.

Nairobi measures

Sakaja urged residents to remain vigilant and take precautions, especially those living near riverbanks or in buildings constructed on encroached land, advising them to vacate immediately. The Governor emphasized that the safety of residents is the priority, and efforts are underway to mitigate the impact of the ongoing heavy rains.

The rainy season has brought significant challenges to several counties, and authorities are taking various steps to ensure public safety and reduce the risks associated with the extreme weather.