Since mid-March, Kenya has been grappling with the devastating impact of flooding and heavy rains, resulting in the loss of at least 70 lives. The situation has been exacerbated by weeks of relentless downpours affecting various parts of the country, including the capital city of Nairobi, as well as the western and central regions.
The government spokesperson recently clarified that the official death toll stands at 70, dispelling earlier reports of a higher number of casualties. Tragically, a recent incident in Makueni county saw five individuals lose their lives after a lorry they were traveling in was swept away by floodwaters. Fortunately, 11 others were rescued from the same incident.
Responding to the crisis, the government has allocated 4 billion Kenya shillings for emergency relief efforts. This funding aims to support the more than 130,000 individuals currently affected by the floods, with thousands of homes destroyed or inundated. The impact on education has been significant, with 64 public schools in Nairobi forced to close due to flooding.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning for heavy rainfall over the weekend, urging residents to exercise caution and preparedness. The situation is part of a broader trend in East Africa, with neighboring countries like Tanzania and Burundi also experiencing severe flooding and its associated consequences.
As the region continues to grapple with the aftermath of these natural disasters, the focus remains on providing assistance to those affected, rebuilding infrastructure, and enhancing disaster preparedness measures to mitigate future risks.
