NAIROBI: Kenya is facing a catastrophic flooding crisis that has killed over 70 people and displaced tens of thousands, President William Ruto announced on Saturday. Describing the situation as an “emergency,” the President revealed that the widespread flooding is a consequence of rains linked to the El Nino weather pattern.
Kenya, along with neighboring Somalia and Ethiopia, is grappling with the aftermath of the worst drought in four decades, only to be met with devastating floods caused by the current weather pattern. The double blow of drought and flooding has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, forcing citizens to abandon their homes in search of safety.
President Ruto declared that the cabinet would convene an emergency meeting on Monday to address the escalating crisis and discuss recommendations on effective crisis management. “Unfortunately, we have lost 70 people across Kenya because of these rains, and around 36,160 households have been displaced so far,” he stated during an address from State House.
More Rain Forecast in Kenya
Expressing concern about the Meteorological Department’s forecast of more rains to come, Ruto emphasized the need for immediate preparedness to mitigate the risk of further flooding. He acknowledged that Kenya is already saturated, with many roads, particularly in the northern part of the country, washed away, leaving essential supplies stranded.
To address the growing humanitarian needs, Ruto announced that the Kenya Defence Force has been mobilized to airlift supplies to marooned communities. The situation is dire, with trucks carrying vital resources such as food, medicine, and fuel unable to reach their destinations.
