Torrential rains have left parts of Kenya grappling with severe flooding, with Busia and Kisumu counties among the worst affected. Overflowing rivers, including the Nzoia, Nyando, Yala, Miriu, and Awach, have inundated vast areas, displacing thousands of families and rendering roads and bridges impassable.
Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has emphasized the need for urgent action. Speaking at Lunyofu Primary School in Kisumu, now a temporary refuge for displaced families, Omollo outlined the government’s long-term plan to mitigate flood-related disasters.
“This underscores the urgency of the government’s long-term strategy to relocate at-risk communities to safer housing and redesign the 30-meter riparian corridors along our rivers and other large water bodies,” Omollo said during his visit.
The flooding has severely impacted infrastructure, prompting authorities to ban vehicles from using roads and bridges deemed unsafe. “The safety of the public is paramount,” Omollo reiterated.
Displacement and Immediate Relief
At Lunyofu Primary School, over 500 households are sheltering in makeshift accommodations. Families have lost homes, livelihoods, and essential possessions to the deluge, leaving them reliant on humanitarian aid. The conditions are dire, with a pressing need for food, clean water, and medical assistance.
The PS later visited Ogenya displaced persons camp in Kisumu, hosting 1,973 households. He commended the collaborative disaster response led by multi-agency teams, including the Kenya Red Cross, National Disaster Operations Center, and the State Department for Social Protection.
The coordinated efforts have ensured timely evacuation and delivery of essential supplies. “The response has been significantly enhanced by the involvement of various agencies. We are seeing improved efficiency in addressing immediate needs,” said Omollo.
Riparian Corridor Redesign
Flooding in Kenya’s riparian regions is not a new phenomenon. Historically, settlements along rivers and water bodies have faced the recurring threat of inundation, particularly during heavy rains.
Omollo reiterated the government’s commitment to implementing long-term strategies to prevent future disasters. The key aspect of this plan is relocating communities living in high-risk areas. The redesign of 30-meter riparian corridors along major rivers aims to create buffer zones that minimize flood risks while promoting sustainable development.
Infrastructure Concerns
With key transportation routes submerged or structurally compromised, mobility has become a significant challenge. Roads connecting towns and rural areas are essential for delivering aid, facilitating trade, and maintaining access to critical services. However, the government has prioritized public safety over accessibility.
“Vehicles will remain prohibited on any roads or bridges deemed unsafe until thorough assessments are conducted,” stated Omollo. Engineers are currently inspecting infrastructure to determine the extent of the damage and the resources required for repairs.
Community Resilience
Despite the devastation, local communities have demonstrated resilience. Volunteer groups, local leaders, and religious organizations have played vital roles in providing shelter and aid. Meanwhile, affected families are calling for accelerated government intervention to restore normalcy.
“I have lived near River Nyando all my life, and this is the worst flooding I have ever seen,” said Mary Atieno, a displaced resident now residing at Lunyofu Primary School.
Call for Support
As rains continue, there is a growing concern for other regions facing similar threats. The government has appealed for support from development partners and humanitarian organizations to bolster ongoing relief efforts.
“The magnitude of this disaster requires a unified approach. We need everyone’s contribution to ensure affected families receive the help they need,” Omollo urged.
With the meteorological department forecasting more rains in the coming weeks, the government and stakeholders are racing against time to address immediate needs while laying the groundwork for sustainable solutions.
Conclusion
The flooding in Busia and Kisumu counties highlights the fragility of communities living in flood-prone areas. While immediate relief efforts are commendable, the long-term success of flood mitigation depends on decisive action, including infrastructural improvements and community relocation.
As Kenya battles the impacts of climate change, the need for proactive and comprehensive disaster management plans has never been more apparent.
