Heavy rains disrupt business in Eastleigh as flooded roads wreak havoc

By Abdirahman Khalif
Friday, January 5, 2024

Eastleigh faced severe flooding as heavy rains pounded the area, leaving key roads, including First Avenue, submerged and impassable. The deluge has stranded numerous residents and shoppers, causing significant disruptions to businesses and traffic flow.

Eastleigh faced severe flooding as heavy rains pounded the area, leaving key roads, including First Avenue, submerged and impassable. The deluge has stranded numerous residents and shoppers, causing significant disruptions to businesses and traffic flow.

The normally busy Yusuf Haji Road and Second Avenue were among the worst hit, exacerbating the challenges faced by locals. Impassable roads prompted the emergence of makeshift transportation solutions, with owners of mkokoteni (a hand-pulled cart)charging Sh20 to ferry people across flooded sections. "It's our time to eat," commented one mkokoteni operator, capitalizing on the demand for alternative transportation.

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A boda-boda rider along First Avenue attempting to avoid the more flooded section of the road as he ferries a client.

However, certain groups, particularly women and children, found themselves disproportionately affected, unable to navigate the waterlogged roads or utilize the mkokoteni service.

Resident Adan Osman voiced frustration over Nairobi County's perceived inaction in addressing sewage system blockages contributing to the floods. "The roads are flooded because the sewage is blocked, look now what we are undergoing," lamented Osman.

Residents of Eastleigh crossing a flooded road on foot at the intersection of General Waruinge Road and First Avenue following heavy rains that pounded the area.

Distressing incidents unfolded, including a mother falling into floodwaters while attempting to use a mkokoteni, met with laughter from onlookers despite some attempting to assist her.

Residents hike a ride on a mkokoteni to cross a flooded intersection of General Waruinge Road and Second Avenue.

This flooding issue has become a recurring problem in Eastleigh, causing disruptions to business operations and residents' daily lives. A significant crowd gathered in front of shops, waiting for the floods to subside before continuing with their errands.

The Meteorological Department issued a warning about ongoing heavy rains expected to persist in various parts of the country from January 6th to 12th. The update highlighted continued rainfall in the southern half of the country, with isolated storms possible over specific regions such as the South Rift Valley and South-eastern lowlands.