Garissa steps up floods response efforts ahead of the November-December rains.

In previous years, flooding has led to loss of lives, livestock and extensive property damage. Two years ago, 15 people drowned at Kona Punda on the Garissa–Madogo stretch after a boat capsized.
Speaking in Garissa town after co-chairing a county steering group meeting on drought preparedness and response, county commissioner Mohamed Mwabudzo said the government is determined to prevent loss of life and damage during the upcoming rains.

The national and county governments, together with partners and stakeholders, have intensified flood preparedness efforts in Garissa County ahead of the anticipated November–December rains.

Residents living along River Tana have been advised to move to higher grounds and remain alert to flood warnings.

In previous years, flooding has led to loss of lives, livestock and extensive property damage. Two years ago, 15 people drowned at Kona Punda on the Garissa–Madogo stretch after a boat capsized.

Speaking in Garissa town after co-chairing a county steering group meeting on drought preparedness and response, county commissioner Mohamed Mwabudzo said the government is determined to prevent loss of life and damage during the upcoming rains.

“We have been there before, and we know what floods mean. We don’t want any casualties. Let people follow the provided guidelines and act early,” he said.

Mwabudzo was accompanied by Deputy Governor Abdi Dagane and representatives from the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA), the Kenya Red Cross Society and other partners. Mwabudzo said the government has mobilised resources to respond swiftly to any emergencies.

Dagane emphasised the need for collaboration between the two levels of government and all partners.

“We are working closely with national agencies and our partners to strengthen early warning systems, improve water access and help families build resilience against the changing climate,” he said.

Dagane lauded partners for their continued support, stressing that joint action is crucial to protecting vulnerable communities.

Last week, the Kenya Red Cross Society Garissa branch trained its Aqua Rescue Team to enhance their preparedness for River Tana flood emergencies.

Branch coordinator Daud Ahmed said the volunteer team, which rescued 273 marooned residents during the 2023 el niño and 2024 March to May floods, has serviced its boat and refreshed its skills ahead of the expected rains.

“We will remain on standby for any river-related emergencies. This proactive approach will help mitigate the impact of floods and safeguard communities along River Tana,” he said.

Ahmed noted although the Meteorological Department projects below-average rainfall for the October–December 2025 season, flooding remains a threat due to heavy rains in upstream areas.

Garissa’s proactive flood preparedness reflects growing awareness of Kenya’s shifting climate risks, where even regions expecting below-average rainfall remain vulnerable to upstream flooding. The coordinated approach between national and county governments, the NDMA and Kenya Red Cross Society shows lessons learned from previous disasters, particularly the deadly 2023 and 2024 floods. Yet, the real test lies in public compliance with early warnings and swift evacuation. Strengthening community awareness and rapid response capacity will be key to averting avoidable losses. Garissa’s readiness could become a model for other flood-prone counties if collaboration and vigilance remain consistent through the rainy season.