12 people killed in latest floods as nearly 4,000 households displaced nationwide
By Lucy Mumbi |
The floods have caused widespread destruction, with multi-agency teams, including the National Disaster Operations Centre and the Kenya Red Cross, leading response efforts.
The recent floods across the country have claimed the lives of 12 people and displaced over 3,970 households, according to the Ministry of Interior.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo revealed that one individual remains missing but rescue and recovery operations are ongoing.
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Omollo, who toured the flood-affected regions of Busia and Kisumu counties on Tuesday, highlighted the extensive damage caused by the rains, which have disrupted transport and agriculture.
He noted that in Bunyala Sub-County, the Lunyofu Primary School is currently sheltering 500 displaced households. He distributed food and non-food items, including rice, beans, blankets, and medical kits.
"The government is committed to supporting affected communities. I oversaw the relief efforts and engaged with displaced families," he said.
He emphasised the government’s dedication to ensuring the safety and recovery of those displaced.
Acknowledging that more than 3,000 households in Busia had been affected, Omollo stressed the importance of relocating families to safer areas.
Extending dykes
He announced plans for infrastructure development, including extending dykes and building a dam four to five kilometres upstream to regulate water flow and support irrigation and household use.
“While the rains are expected to subside soon, we must remain vigilant and adhere to government safety directives. This includes avoiding hazardous zones such as dams, roads, and bridges deemed unsafe, and following evacuation notices,” Omollo said.
In Kisumu County, the PS visited the Ogenya displaced persons’ camp, which holds 1,973 households.
He assessed health surveillance measures implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Health to prevent an outbreak of waterborne and vector-borne diseases.
Omollo also met with local leaders to discuss long-term solutions, including improved early warning systems, enhanced drainage infrastructure, and community education on flood management.
Tree planting initiatives
Highlighting the impacts of climate change, he urged residents of Ogenya to participate in the Chief’s Climate Action Day, held monthly, and to embrace tree planting initiatives.
“Tree planting is vital for securing our environment, mitigating climate change effects, and addressing food security challenges,” he said, calling for collective action in supporting development projects.
Nationally, the floods have caused widespread destruction, with multi-agency teams, including the National Disaster Operations Centre and the Kenya Red Cross, leading response efforts.
Omollo lauded the teams for their swift action in mitigating the disaster’s effects.
The ministry further assured fishermen in flood-hit areas that recent arrests were being addressed and measures would be taken to equip officers to handle such cases better.
He also lauded the Taifa Care universal health programme, encouraging residents to register and access affordable healthcare regardless of their financial capacity.
With schools on holiday, Omollo urged parents and guardians to ensure children’s safety, particularly in flood-prone areas, emphasising the importance of community vigilance during this period.
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