President William Ruto has directed a swift government response to address the humanitarian crisis caused by flooding in Nairobi and several other parts of the country, following heavy rains that have resulted in loss of life, widespread displacement, and significant property damage.
In a statement on Saturday, March 7, the President expressed his deepest condolences to families who have lost loved ones and extended his thoughts and prayers to all those affected by the disaster.
“The ongoing flooding in parts of Nairobi and other areas of our country has caused immense distress to many families, resulting in tragic loss of lives, displacement of residents, and damage to homes, property, and livelihoods,” he said.
Emergency Response and Relief Measures
To mitigate the impact of the floods, President Ruto ordered the immediate deployment of a multi-agency emergency response team, led by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, in collaboration with the Kenya Defence Forces and other emergency agencies.
The team is tasked with coordinating rescue operations, supporting affected communities, and ensuring that residents at risk are safely relocated.
The President further directed that relief food from national strategic reserves be released and distributed to families affected by the flooding.
In addition, the government will cover hospital bills for those injured or receiving treatment in public health facilities and provide emergency humanitarian support for displaced families.
Collaboration with County Governments
The national government is working closely with the Nairobi City County Government and other county administrations to ensure a coordinated response that prioritises the safety and wellbeing of citizens.
Low-lying estates and informal settlements, including Embakasi, Kibra, Mathare, Mukuru, Huruma, Njiru, and Westlands, have experienced severe inundation, forcing many residents to relocate temporarily.
Major roads such as Uhuru Highway, Mombasa Road, Thika Superhighway, Jogoo Road, and parts of the CBD remain impassable, affecting transport and emergency access.
Long-Term Strategy to Address Urban Flooding
President Ruto emphasised that the floods highlight the urgent need for lasting solutions to perennial urban flooding.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to the Nairobi River Regeneration Programme, aimed at restoring river ecosystems, improving drainage systems, and reducing flood risks within the city.
The programme will be strengthened and accelerated to safeguard lives, protect property, and preserve the environment.
The President assured Kenyans that the government remains committed to acting decisively and efficiently, combining immediate relief measures with long-term infrastructural solutions to prevent future disasters and enhance resilience across flood-prone areas.