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Nairobi floods: Kiambiu residents stranded as footbridge collapses

The collapsed bridge in Kiambiu. (Photo: Justine Ondieki)

By Lucy Mumbi and Charity Kilei | 24 Apr 2024

Despite other alternative routes, the bridge offers convenience as locals prefer it to access essential infrastructure.

Residents of Kiambiu informal settlement in the Kamukunji area of Nairobi were left stranded on Wednesday morning after torrential rains wreaked havoc, damaging a vital footbridge connecting the area to Uhuru and Buruburu areas in Embakasi West and Makadara.

The footbridge, which has been in existence for over two decades, collapsed into the river, leaving residents stranded on one side with no means to cross.

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Residents stood by the riverbank, their expressions reflecting anguish and uncertainty following the crisis.

Simon Maina, a tout, was taken aback by the sight of the broken bridge. "I'm at a loss for words," he said, surveying the scene. "Our customers from Kiambiu are stranded, and we can't reach them. It's a devastating blow for us all."

Charles Mutuko, an employee at Oma Service Matatu at the footbridge. (Photo: Justine Ondieki)

Charles Mutuko, an employee at Oma Service Matatu, echoed the sentiments, saying their livelihoods had been affected.

"By this time, we'd usually have completed over seven trips. But today, we've barely managed two. Our livelihood depends on the business from Kiambiu, and now our clients are stranded," he said.

The footbridge, mostly referred to as Kadaro by residents, served as a crucial link to essential facilities such as schools and shops.

Despite other alternative routes, the bridge offers convenience as locals prefer it to access essential infrastructure.

As the day progressed, the full extent of the tragedy became evident. Kevin Uche and his friend sat in despair, their businesses washed away by the floods.

"We relied on that bridge for our livelihood. Now, everything is gone," Kevin lamented.

Felix Baraza, who lost his home in the disaster, shared his anguish. "Thankfully, my family is safe, but we've lost everything," he said, his eyes filled with sorrow.

Felix and his friends ran a successful boutique and shoe shine business near the footbridge that has now collapsed.

"Starting over is incredibly tough, especially when we're living hand to mouth. Some of us haven't even returned home because we're unsure of where to begin," he said.

Simon Maina, a tout, stands at the collapsed bridge. (Photo: Justine Ondieki)

Without the footbridge, residents are forced to take longer routes, incurring additional costs and wasting time. Simon Mwangi expressed concern for the children's safety as schools prepare to reopen.

“How will our children go to school? This bridge has been our hope for the longest time. We are appealing to the county government to help us,” he said.

The Nairobi County issued a statement urging residents, including those in Kiambiu, to evacuate due to ongoing flooding. Governor Johnson Sakaja confirmed four people had died and the search for missing persons was ongoing.

Areas such as Kibra, Lindi, Mathare, Baba Dogo, Githurai, and Zimmerman have been severely affected.

The Kenya Meteorological Department warned of continued intense rainfall across the country, exacerbating the flooding crisis.