The Nakuru County government pledges to cover hospital bills for victims of the recent Mai Mahiu tragedy, which claimed the lives of at least 71 people and left over 91 missing.
Governor Susan Kihika announced this commitment on Tuesday, stating that the county will prioritise the welfare of affected residents.
Rescue efforts are underway to locate individuals who remain missing following the tragic incident that occurred in the early hours of Monday morning.
This catastrophe echoes a similar event six years ago in Solai, also within Nakuru County, where 48 lives were lost. The May 2018 disaster, involving a private reservoir on a coffee estate, occurred amidst weeks of heavy rainfall.
During her visit to the scene, Governor Kihika conveyed her condolences to the bereaved families and friends, acknowledging the immense grief and uncertainty they are experiencing.
"I cannot fathom the anguish you have endured since this morning. As families, I understand your devastation and concerns about what comes next, especially regarding the hospital bills of your loved ones. As a government, we will cover these expenses to ensure all affected individuals receive the necessary care," Kihika affirmed.
Affected families are encouraged to register at Ngeya Secondary School, where a desk has been set up by the county, in collaboration with the Kenya Red Cross, to facilitate assistance distribution.
Furthermore, the county government plans to conduct inspections across the region to identify potentially hazardous dams. Immediate actions, including draining, will be taken to mitigate the risk of similar natural disasters.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua weighed in on the matter, advising motorists against attempting to navigate flooded areas, which has contributed to the rising death toll from floods. He stressed the importance of adhering to government directives.
"Do not challenge nature. If you encounter flooded areas, refrain from attempting to pass through with vehicles or motorcycles. It is vital to heed government advice regarding flooded regions and navigating through these challenging circumstances," Mr. Gachagua emphasised.
He commended the individuals involved in the search and rescue operations in Mai Mahiu, highlighting their dedication and bravery amidst the crisis.
According to the Ministry of Interior, the toll of floods during the long rainy season stands at a grim 169 lives lost, with a further 102 individuals sustaining injuries across affected areas.
Currently, 91 people remain unaccounted for, with Mai Mahiu constituting the largest portion of the missing individuals at 53, followed by Garissa with 16 reported missing persons.
The displacement caused by these floods has been severe, with 30,099 households uprooted from their homes, impacting around 150,495 individuals. In Sindo, Homa Bay, 161 households have been forced to flee due to flooding.
In total, the number of people affected by these natural calamities stands at approximately 190,942 individuals, highlighting the widespread devastation and urgent need for assistance.
