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Devastating floods leave 200 families in Kamukunji homeless, helpless

By Abdirahman Khalif | 01 May 2024

The onset of floods caught many residents off guard, particularly those living along the riverbanks.

Over 200 families in the villages of Kanuku, Kitui, and Brazil in the Kamukunji sub-county are grappling with the aftermath of devastating flash floods that swept through their homes, leaving a trail of destruction.

The onset of floods caught many residents off guard, particularly those living along the riverbanks. Homes were demolished, belongings were swept away, and households were left in ruins, leaving families without food or shelter.

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Grace Wamboi, a mother of four, recounts the harrowing experience when her house was engulfed by the raging waters, leaving her with nothing but the clothes on her back.

"I am left with nothing, no food and no shelter, I don't know where to take my children," she lamented tearfully.

Some of the houses built at the riverbanks which risk being swept away if the heavy rains continue pounding Kanuku village, California ward in Kamukunji Constituency. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)

Fatuma Mohamed, a mother of seven, shares a similar tale of loss and despair. As the floodwaters overwhelmed her home in the dead of night, she scrambled to save her children and whatever valuables she could salvage.

"Yesterday, I had everything including money and food, today I have nothing. Look at my children, they are hungry," she said, her voice filled with anguish.

According to community leader Anthony Maina, the situation is dire, with over 200 families affected and 25 of them having lost all their belongings. Many now seek refuge in nearby churches, having been left with no other options.

Women start rebuilding their homes after they were destroyed by flash floods in Kinyago informal settlements. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)

He appealed for urgent government intervention to prevent further suffering, especially among the most vulnerable- the mothers and children.

"Houses have been destroyed, household items including food have been swept away by floods, it's sad," he said.

Without swift action, the situation risks deteriorating further, exacerbating the already dire circumstances facing these communities.

It is the third time residents who live in these slums faced this kind of destruction.

Unfortunately, they have nowhere else to move due to financial constraints.

Countrywide, at least 179 people have been killed as a result of flooding. This is as government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the weather forecast shows that the country will continue to receive above-average rainfall in May.