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Seven-hour heavy downpour in Mandera leaves a trail of destruction

Banissa town is flooded. More than 100 people were affected. (Photo: Adan Mohamed)

By Adan Mohamed | 04 May 2024

Over 153 households were displaced, with more than 120 toilets destroyed, raising concerns of potential waterborne diseases.

A relentless seven-hour downpour wreaked havoc in parts of Mandera County, leaving a trail of destruction and displacement.

Areas including Banisa, Rhamu, and Takaba sub-counties bore the brunt of the heavy rainfall, which commenced around 3 am and persisted until 10 am.

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In Banisa Sub-county, the Banissa Earth Pan, a significant landmark within the town, overflowed, leading to flooding in residential areas and schools.

Over 153 households were displaced, with more than 120 toilets destroyed, raising concerns of potential waterborne diseases.

Residents, caught off guard by the sudden deluge, called for urgent rescue operations from authorities and organisations like the Kenya Red Cross to prevent further damage.

"We were caught off guard by the rains. We urgently require the assistance of the Kenya Red Cross and the government to intensify rescue operations, as these floodwaters may persist until evening," said Abubakar, a resident.

Takaba North was similarly affected, with more than 50 homes destroyed in areas like Ardhahalo and Bolowle.

Livestock, including six camels, were swept away by the floodwaters, compounding the crisis.

Banissa town is flooded. More than 100 people were affected. (Photo: Adan Mohamed)

Yussuf Lakicha, another resident, urged swift action from the government to relocate residents to safer ground amid fears of continued rainfall.

"I call upon the government to act swiftly to relocate residents, as the area is anticipating more rains," he added.

In Rhamu, Mandera North, the seasonal River Ali Wando burst its banks, cutting off the main B-9 road and leaving passengers stranded.

A vehicle attempting to cross the flooded river was swept away with occupants onboard. Prompt rescue operations averted a tragedy, with a mother and her sons rescued just in time.

The Kenya Red Cross Society, on high alert, is providing rescue operations across all affected sub-counties.

Hassan Mussa, Head of Region for the Kenya Red Cross in North Eastern, reported over 570 affected persons and extensive damage to farmland, totalling more than 9,000 hectares.

"Kenya Red Cross will provide food and non-food items to all affected residents and also relocate those affected to higher grounds," added Hassan Mussa.

Hassan assured that all displaced persons would be registered to receive necessary support.