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IGAD sympathises with Kenya following flash floods, urges regional preparedness

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

By Hanifa Adan | 27 Apr 2024

The ongoing countrywide heavy rains have claimed 70 lives and left 24,102 households displaced, as announced by the government.

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has extended its solidarity to Kenya following severe flash floods that have swept through the country, causing widespread devastation.

In a statement released on April 26, IGAD expressed deep sympathy for the significant loss of life and extensive damage inflicted on property and infrastructure, affecting 24 counties.

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"The IGAD Secretariat acknowledges the profound challenges posed by these floods and expresses sincere compassion for those severely affected," the statement read.

The organisation highlighted the importance of adhering to safety measures and disaster preparedness protocols to prevent further crises.

Forecasts from the IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC) warn of continued heavy rainfall across parts of Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, and Somalia, suggesting an ongoing risk of flooding into early May.

Notably, enhanced rainfall is expected in the eastern regions of the Greater Horn of Africa, increasing flood risks in critical areas such as the Juba-Shebelle basins and various urban centres.

IGAD's Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu extended heartfelt sympathies to those impacted and lauded the efforts of the Kenyan Multi-Agency Response Team on Floods, led by President William Ruto, particularly for their prompt actions in Nairobi and neighbouring counties.

"As floods continue to pose challenges in the region, IGAD remains committed to collaborating with its member states to address climate change through mitigation and adaptation strategies," said Dr Workneh Gebeyehu.

He highlighted the ongoing threat of heavy rainfall and emphasised the need for enhanced regional cooperation in early warning systems.

IGAD, through its Climate Centre – ICPAC, vowed to continue providing timely forecasts and advisory measures to protect lives and livelihoods, aiming to ensure a safer and more secure region for all.

The ongoing countrywide heavy rains have claimed 70 lives and left 24,102 households displaced, as announced by the government.

22 people have been badly injured while 8 people are missing as well.

Kenya Meteorological Department indicated that the rains are not about to stop in many parts of the country.