Heavy rains have wreaked havoc across Kenya since mid-April, causing severe flooding.
While the long rains typically arrive in March and conclude by June, this year's downpour hit late and with exceptional intensity.
Seventeen districts have suffered varying degrees of flooding, with a reported death toll of 77 and over 60,000 people displaced.
Official reports confirm the Lake Victoria basin as the most severely affected area, with Nyando, Migori, Kisumu, and Busia districts bearing the brunt of the disaster, displacing over 50,000 residents. An additional 10,000 people have been displaced in the Tana River plains.
Nairobi and its environs have also been hit very hard, with many estates getting flooded and rivers washing away shanty houses along river banks.
The unexpected and devastating floods have left countless Kenyans struggling across the country. A swift and coordinated response from all stakeholders – government, international organisations and local groups – is crucial to alleviate the suffering and begin the long road to recovery.
We urge immediate action to address the critical needs of those affected by the flooding.
Priority should go to relief food, non-food items (blankets, cooking utensils, mosquito nets), shelter materials, water and sanitation facilities, seeds for agricultural recovery, health facilities and counselling services for those experiencing trauma.
Quote of the Day: “It is especially important to encourage unorthodox thinking when the situation is critical.”
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Russia held a referendum on support for the President and his policies on April 25, 1993.
