The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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In the last 24 hours, nine individuals have lost their lives in incidents linked to floods, pushing the national death toll to 228.
Isaac Mwaura, the government spokesperson, conveyed that the ongoing flooding has resulted in injuries to 164 individuals, with 72 others currently unaccounted for.
Issuing a statement on Sunday, Mwaura noted that approximately 212,630 individuals from 42,526 households have been displaced, while a total of 223,198 people have been affected by floods across the country.
Mwaura extended the government’s sincere condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives.
On Saturday, two additional fatalities were recorded following the Mai Mahiu flood incident, bringing the total death count to 58, as reported by the police.
A subsequent report from the Mai Mahiu police station revealed that a male adult and a minor were recovered by the multiagency team.
Mwaura highlighted Homa Bay, Kajiado, Nakuru, Mandera, and Nairobi counties as the hardest-hit by the ongoing heavy rains, which have triggered unprecedented flooding.
He assured the public that the government is actively implementing the 24-hour evacuation notice issued on May 2, providing logistical support including alternative accommodation and essential supplies to the affected individuals.
Mwaura stated that a multi-agency team is leading the evacuation efforts in riparian areas, with 163,210 residents relocated thus far, either forcibly or voluntarily.
Despite the floods, Mwaura reassured that all National Game parks and reserves remain safe and largely accessible, emphasizing that the Maasai Mara flood incident shouldn’t cause alarm. He clarified that only two tented camps along the Talek River were swept away, with no casualties reported among tourists and employees. Efforts were made to evacuate affected individuals, and the park remains largely accessible despite minor road closures.
He urged tourists to disregard travel advisories cautioning against visiting the country, asserting that Kenya remains a safe destination for tourism.
Mwaura called upon Kenyans to contribute to relief efforts through donations or volunteering and advised them to report flood-related emergencies to the National Disaster Operations Centre (NDOC) via the toll-free number 0800 721 571.
He also appealed to development partners and friends of Kenya to support the nation during this emergency, commending the United Arab Emirates for their donation of two plane loads of 80 tonnes of food and non-food items.
