As the roads become impassable, the consequences of this natural disaster deepen, creating a dire situation for the residents in this remote part of the country.
The region is known for its arid landscapes and harsh climates, making it vulnerable to extreme weather events such as the current El Nino phenomenon. With limited transportation options due to the poor road network, the heavy downpour has quickly turned what were once dusty tracks into muddy, treacherous paths that are virtually impossible to navigate.
As of November 23, according to UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, about 60 people had died due to the devastating flash floods and 135,125 people have been displaced, with Garissa, Wajir and Mandera counties being the most affected counties.
For many communities in this region, the deteriorating road conditions have severed important supply routes, resulting in severe shortages of daily essentials. Basic needs like food, clean water, medicines and fuel are increasingly scarce, leaving families struggling to survive. Isolated from neighbouring regions, the residents find themselves trapped in a vicious cycle of dependency on external aid.
The lack of accessible and reliable roads has also contributed to a healthcare crisis in the Northeastern region. Medical personnel and supplies are unable to reach the affected areas in a timely manner, exacerbating illness and endangering lives. Pregnant women, the elderly and young children are particularly vulnerable, as they face challenges in accessing healthcare facilities during emergencies.
In addition to healthcare challenges, the education sector has also been severely impacted. The inability to commute has left students and teachers stranded during this examination period. Sadly, a deputy head teacher at Masalani Primary School died after being struck by propellers of a helicopter during an attempted take-off in Ijara, Garissa county.
The teacher was part of a government official contingent overseeing the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education exam.
The entire Northern region is staring at a looming crisis having been cut off from other parts of the country and within our counties. If this situation persists for one more week, the entire region will be facing severe starvation.
Prices of basic commodities have skyrocketed. One tomato goes for Sh100, a clear indicator of the grim situation ahead while other essential commodities are either expensive or out of stock and communities left to deal with acute food shortage by skipping a meal or two in a day or reducing their portions in a bid to survive.
More than 135,125 people have been displaced from their homes and are largely relying on donors and well-wishers. It is disheartening to see the absence national government during such emergencies.
At the same time, Wajir county relies on diesel-powered generator for day-to-day operations. As I write this, the entire county is experiencing a blanket power shutdown. This is not only affecting business communities from the region, but also hospitals that need power supply for basic procedures endangering the lives of patients in ICU, premature babies in incubators and pregnant women who may need caesarian operation, among others.
The El Nino challenges have exposed the national government's slow response to emergencies. The communities from the region are not second-class citizens and, as its leadership, we will stand by our electorate during such dire times.
At the moment, we should be having a discussion about rain harvesting. It sad that in a few months time, we may need the same blessings in the name of rainfall that is currently causing havoc.
I challenge the Ministry of Water to see a silver lining and urgently embark and encourage rain harvesting. Some of the counties like Wajir do not have a single dam. This is a shame in the fight against climate change and our collective responsibility to mitigate.
Despite the adverse conditions, the affected communities in the North have showcased tremendous strength and resilience. Local leaders and humanitarian organisations have rallied to provide assistance and distribute relief supplies to those in need. However, these efforts alone cannot bridge the gap of basic resources caused by the impassable roads.
The ongoing rains and their devastating effect on the already poor road infrastructure in the region require urgent attention from both the government and international organisations. Investments in road construction, repair and maintenance will not only enhance connectivity and accessibility, but also build resilience in the face of future natural disasters.
In the face of the ongoing El Nino rains, the resilient people of the North are fighting against the odds to overcome the challenges posed by the poor road network. The shortage of daily operations and basic needs has pushed them to their limits.
The urgent need for improved infrastructure and support from the authorities cannot be emphasised enough. By addressing the issue at its root, we can help these communities rebuild their lives and create a more resilient future for all.
The writer is the Wajir woman representative
