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Ruto directs NYS to provide alternative land for flood victims

President William Ruto officially opens the Bunge Tower, Nairobi on April 25, 2024. Photo: PSC

By Maureen Kinyanjui | 25 Apr 2024

Kenya Meteorological Department early this week warned of landslides and flooding in low-lying and urban areas with poor drainage.

Kenyans who have been advised to leave flood-prone locations will have a temporary haven while the government looks for alternative land.

President William Ruto on Thursday announced that he had directed the National Youth Service to provide alternative land for people living in high-risk areas that are vulnerable to floods.

"This morning, I have authorised the National Youth Service to provide land for people living dangerously in some of the areas for them to be moved from those areas into some safe ground as we decide on what to do with them next," he said.

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Acknowledging that rains can be a blessing in disguise, the President stated that his government has managed to grow the agricultural sector and is making progress in making sure that the cost of living is reduced to support farmers.

"But even as we get the blessing of the rains, we also have seen floods in different parts of our country. Many Kenyans are going through difficult times," Ruto said.

The President was speaking during the official opening of the Bunge Tower in Nairobi.

Going further, The Head of State revealed that later in the day, he will convene another meeting with multi-agency teams to ensure comprehensive support is provided to those in need.

Ruto emphasised that individuals residing in flood-prone areas will be evacuated forcibly to safeguard their lives from the floods.

"Unfortunately, we will have to move some of them even without them agreeing because otherwise they put themselves in danger," he added.

On Wednesday morning, the President engaged with leaders whose counties have been affected by floods.

As a result, the National Youth Service, the military, and members of the national government were mobilised to work with the counties in collaboration to support those in distress.

Kenya Meteorological Department early this week warned of landslides and flooding in low-lying and urban areas with poor drainage.

Rainfall is expected to continue over several parts of the country from April 23 to April 29, 2024.

As of April 24, 2024, the Kenya Red Cross recorded 45 deaths and over 188 rescued since the beginning of the March-May rains, with 30,906 acres of cropland submerged, 5,407 livestock lost, and 23 counties affected.

26,269 households are impacted, with 13,368 displaced, affecting 26 schools and 280 businesses.