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Rights group puts State on spot over flood response failure

Floods leave a trail of destruction in Mathare, Nairobi on April 24, 2024. (Hanifa Adan)

By Lucy Mumbi | 25 Apr 2024

The movement also questioned the glaring absence of a proper evacuation strategy and rapid response teams until Wednesday, highlighting how ordinary citizens, lacking the necessary expertise and equipment, were compelled to conduct search and rescue operations.

The Social Justice Movement (SJM), an advocate for human rights and equality, has condemned the government and other institutions in the aftermath of the devastating floods that have swept throughout the country, causing many fatalities, massive property damage, and displacement.

In a statement on Thursday, the organization criticized the meteorological department for failing to provide adequate warnings ahead of the severe weather, questioning the disappearance of funds allocated by the national and county governments for flood mitigation efforts.

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According to the Movement, the prolonged and heavy rains witnessed are clear indicators of the changing climate, and it is incumbent upon the government to adapt its disaster management and respond accordingly.

“Last year, substantial funds were allocated by both the national and county governments to mitigate potential flooding from El Niño, yet these funds seem to have disappeared without a trace. We demand accountability for these missing funds and urge swift action to bring those responsible to justice,” reads the statement.

The movement also questioned the glaring absence of a proper evacuation strategy and rapid response teams until Wednesday, highlighting how ordinary citizens, lacking the necessary expertise and equipment, were compelled to conduct search and rescue operations.

“Until yesterday, there was a glaring absence of a proper evacuation strategy and rapid response teams on the ground. Ordinary citizens, lacking the necessary expertise and equipment, were left to conduct search and rescue operations. Where were the professionals and medics who should have been assisting?” they posed.

They noted that the lack of a coordinated national response was unacceptable.

“Kenyans deserve transparency and accountability from their leaders, especially in times of crisis. The government must take full responsibility for its neglect in warning and mitigating the effects of these floods, and it should cover all expenses necessary to ensure the victims receive dignified burials and necessary support,” they said.

The SJM also denounced local churches in the Mathare 4A area saying they did not open their doors to those affected by the floods.

They, however, commended the Kenya Red Cross for their relentless efforts in assisting flood victims.

They called upon the private sector to prioritize humanitarian aid over profit during this critical time.

“While floods are a natural catastrophe, the continued loss of life underscores systemic failures in management at both the county and national levels. We also condemn the churches that have refused to open their doors to affected victims in Mathare 4A and other affected areas, and we also call on the private sector to show compassion and humanity at this trying moment, rather than prioritizing profit above all else,” the organization said.

They expressed profound sorrow for the loss of lives and extended their deepest sympathies to those affected.

“Our hearts go out to the families who have lost loved ones in this tragedy, and we extend our heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. We stand in solidarity with all those displaced by the floods, facing unimaginable challenges and uncertainty. Their immediate needs must be met, and we call on authorities to prioritize their safety and well-being,” they noted.

The organization vowed to stand in solidarity with the victims of the floods adding that they will continue to monitor the situation closely.

“We demand answers from the government and we will not rest until justice is served and the needs of all affected communities are met,” they said