Kenya has continued to experience enhanced rainfall resulting in flooding, thus negatively impacting the lives and livelihoods of vulnerable populations. The floods have affected a lot of areas in the country. In Nakuru County, families living in Kiamunyi, Olive Inn, and Kaptembwa communities, among others have been displaced following floods caused by a heavy downpour since the third week of April.
The flooding in these communities has been blamed on poor drainage and sanitation with most drainage systems being clogged. Communities close to Lake Nakuru have been forced to relocate after overflow from the lake sparking fears of a humanitarian crisis.
My friend and fellow Rotarian Joab Okello recently wrote.
“Today, I made random rounds to check the extent of destruction caused by overflowing Lake Nakuru, the situation isn’t so good. People have started breaking into abandoned flooded homes and stealing iron sheets, doors, and windows. Others have simply broken their houses to be able to build some structures at an IDP campsite. Wells and toilets have been filled and a tragedy is building up for waterborne diseases. People are no longer just worried about Covid-19 but this real enemy at their doorstep. Food insecurity and disease. We are indeed facing a triple tragedy.”