The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has issued a directive to county governments to clear storm drains and demolish any structures obstructing the free flow of water. The move comes amidst ongoing heavy rains that have already claimed 70 lives and displaced over 131,000 people.
In a public notice released on Friday, April 26, NEMA invoked Section 13 of the Sustainable Waste Management Act 2022, urging authorities to anticipate and address drainage blockages caused by illegal structures and market waste. The agency emphasised the need for immediate action to prevent further environmental degradation and public health risks.
NEMA's directive extends to companies regulated under Extended Producer Responsibility rules, urging them to minimise waste and wastewater discharge during flooding episodes.
The aim is to mitigate the risk of waterway blockages and safeguard both the environment and public health.
"The public is advised to steer clear of flooded areas, seek higher ground, and heed advisories from regulatory bodies," stated NEMA.
According to government sources, ongoing floods have resulted in 70 fatalities and displaced over 131,000 individuals, painting a grim picture of the humanitarian crisis unfolding across the nation.
The Kenya Meteorological Department today, issued a warning about potential landslides in several regions due to the relentless downpour. Areas particularly at risk include the Mt. Kenya regions, Western Kenya, and the slopes of the Aberdare ranges.
Despite ongoing efforts to mitigate the impact of the deluge, concerns linger as the Meteorological Department forecasts continued heavy rainfall across the country. Nairobi, Kisumu, and Narok are among the areas expected to bear the brunt of the precipitation, raising fears of heightened flooding and disruption to daily life.
In response to the heightened risk, President William Ruto has directed the National Youth Service (NYS) to provide temporary shelter for flood-affected citizens. Priority is given to residents of landslide-prone areas, including the slopes of the Aberdare ranges and Mt. Kenya.
Nairobi, the capital city, has been severely affected, with over 30,000 residents displaced by floodwaters, according to the United Nations.
The situation worsened on Tuesday when 18 individuals, including seven children, were stranded before being rescued by the Kenya Red Cross Society. Today, at least 10 people are feared to have drowned while trying to cross the flooded Muswii River in Makueni County.
As of going to press with this story, Kenya Red Cross had saved seven people.
To enhance public awareness and preparedness, the government has pledged to issue daily alerts regarding potential floods across the country.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua announced the initiative during a briefing on the country's emergency response efforts, highlighting the importance of early warnings in preventing flash flood-related calamities.
A multi-agency centre has been activated to monitor the flooding situation nationwide, underscoring the government's commitment to managing the crisis effectively.
