Government keen to address flood crisis

By Peter K'Opiyo  

The government of Kenya is working tirelessly to ensure the flood menace that has hit hard on some sections of the country, especially western Kenya is addressed once and for all.

During his tour to assess the flood response efforts situation in Busia and Kisumu counties, Principal Secretary for Internal Security, Dr. Raymond Omollo acknowledged that over 3,000 families had been adversely affected by the raging floods that resulted from heavy rains experienced in the western parts of Kenya that included Nyanza and Western regions. 

As a way of giving long-lasting solutions, the PS disclosed that plans were underway to build a robust infrastructure to help prevent tragedies in the future.

"There are plans for infrastructure development, including the extension of dykes and construction of an upstream dam which is 4-5kilometres to regulate water flow and support irrigation and household use,” revealed a press release from the office of the PS. 

The PS, however, urged residents of affected areas to always take precautionary measures and remain vigilant to avoid property and life loss.

“While the rains are expected to subside soon, we must remain vigilant and abide by government safety directives. This includes avoiding hazardous zones including dams, roads and bridges deemed unsafe and following evacuation notices,” said Dr. Omollo. 

Furthermore, Dr Omollo inspected health surveillance measures put in place by the Ministry of Health to prevent the outbreak of both water-borne and vector-borne diseases as he also held important discussions with the local leaders that focused on long-term strategies for preventing the recurrence of flood-caused disasters.  

These talks focused on improving early warning signs, enhancing drainage infrastructure, and educating the community on flood risk management. 

Moreover, the PS also urged locals to engage in climate change mitigation activities to lessen the impacts of climate change.

“Tree planting is vital for securing our environment, mitigating climate change effects and addressing food security challenges, therefore come out and embrace such activities for the good of our generation and generations to come,” averred Dr Omollo.

He also commended the multiagency team comprising the National Disaster Operations Centre and the Kenya Red Cross Society that has been so swift in response during times of calamities hence providing timely interventions. 

The interior PS expressed optimism that issues on the arrest of fishermen in Lake Victoria will be addressed soon and that all officers will be well-equipped to enhance service delivery. 

He further urged locals to register for the Taifa Careuniversal health program to benefit from the affordable healthcare initiative put in place by the government regardless of their ability to contribute.

The raging floods have displaced 3,970 households countrywide, causing 12 fatalities with one person still missing and disrupted transport and agricultural practices. 

Dr Omollo visited Lunyofu Primary School in Bunyalasub-county which hosts close to 5oo displaced households before later proceeding to Ogenya Displaced Persons camp in Kisumu County. 

He was accompanied by Budalang’i MP Raphael Wanjala, Kisumu Women Representative Ruth Odinga, Muhoroni MP Onyango Koyoo, and Busia County Commissioner Mwachaunga Chaunga.