By Peter Ochieng
Over 160 people have been killed by floods resulting from heavy rains being experienced in most parts of the country, since March 2024.
The ministry of interior and national administration led by Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki in a statement on Tuesday said the number now stands at 169.
According to the statement, the mudslide tragedy in Mai Mahiu, Nakuru county on Monday morning claimed 46 lives, 4 lives were lost in Garissa while 4 other deaths were reported in Sindo, Homabay county.
However, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua initially stated that the Mai Mahiu tragedy had claimed 71 lives.
“A total of 91 people are currently missing. Mai Mahiu accounts for 53 of these missing persons while Garissa has reported 16 missing persons,” the ministry said, adding that,”30,099 households have been displaced, affecting approximately 150, 495 individuals. In Sindo, Homa Bay, 161 households have been displaced.”
Nairobi, Tana River, West Pokot and Homa Bay are among the worst hit counties, with the number of Kenyans affected by the floods now standing at approximately 190,942.
President William Ruto on Tuesday chaired a special Cabinet meeting to discuss the flood situation in the country. The Head of State is expected to announce various measures aimed at mitigating effects.
US ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman is among a host of global leaders to have shared good will messages with Kenya, because of the ravaging floods.
“My thoughts are with all Kenyans affected by recent heavy rains and flooding. The United States continues to partner with Kenya Red Cross and UNICEF Kenya to meet the needs of impacted communities and families,” she said.
The Kenya Red Cross in an update related to the Mai Mahiu tragedy said 76 people have been reported missing, while 110 have been rescued.
The humanitarian agency says at least 250 people are being hosted at Ngeya Girls Secondary School, where they were provided with essential items, courtesy of the national and county government of Nakuru, and partners.
The agency says it continues its search, rescue and retrieval efforts, along with providing psychological support services to the affected families.