As the government addresses the ongoing challenges posed by floods, citizens are urged to take precautions while parents are advised to prioritize their children's safety as schools reopen. Dr. Isaac Mwaura, the government spokesperson, emphasized the need for caution beyond wearing life jackets during boat rides, highlighting the broader risks associated with flooding, especially in areas prone to landslides and overflowing rivers.
During a press briefing in Nairobi, Mwaura announced that the State Department of Public Works is inspecting schools and buildings in affected areas to assess flood impacts and readiness for student re-admission. He noted that 44 primary and 27 secondary schools remain closed, mainly in Nyeri County due to landslide risks.
Mwaura assured that national, county, and multi-agency teams are collaborating to repair and construct affected schools for a safe learning environment. He also mentioned the unfortunate loss of 277 lives due to floods and reiterated the government's commitment to supporting affected communities.
Mwaura provided updates on the government's actions. Besides school closures and repairs, he mentioned the eviction of residents from high-risk areas near rivers to prevent further disasters. He also touched on ongoing rescue operations in regions still affected by heavy rains, such as Kisumu and West Pokot counties, where schools remain closed due to water-related challenges.In addressing concerns about potential politicization of evacuation efforts, Mwaura stressed the government's commitment to efficient and fair measures. He outlined steps being taken to streamline operations, including close coordination among national, county, and multi-agency teams. These efforts aim to not only ensure the safety of affected communities but also prevent exploitation of the situation for political gains.
Additionally, the government urged Kenyans and local/international partners to assist with search and rescue operations and provide essential supplies to affected households. In terms of essential food, supplies, and rice and beans, 1 .2 million economies have been distributed to support affected communities. In Busia, Homa Bay, Kisumu, Machakos, Garissa, Tukana, Isiolo, Migori, Nairobi, Kiambu among others.
The floods have affected health facilities and water sanitation systems, leading to reported cases of waterborne diseases.Mwaura highlighted the deployment of public health officials for risk assessments and emphasized demolitions of unsafe structures and evacuations from risky areas. The government has distributed one million kilograms of rice and beans to affected individuals and continues to provide logistical support and temporary shelter.
He cautioned against unsafe bridge and road usage and urged community leaders to sensitize residents about hazards. Mwaura acknowledged the efforts of Kenya Defense Forces in rescue operations and called for decisive actions against illegal activities along water bodies to prevent further degradation.
In conclusion, Mwaura reassured Kenyans of the government's commitment to safety, issued emergency contact information for assistance, and emphasized the need for collaborative efforts in mitigating flood impacts.
By Ounah R. Khalayi
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