Nairobi governor Johnson Sakaja has issued key directives to mitigate raging floods that have wreaked havoc in the capital.
In a statement on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, Sakaja said that about 60,000 people have been affected by floods in Nairobi.
The governor added that four people lost their lives to the floods while six others are missing.
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"An estimated 60,000 people mostly women and children in Nairobi have been severely affected following devastating flash floods which hit the city. Unfortunately, we have lost 4 lives, and the search is on to locate 6 others who have been reported missing.
"The following areas have been adversely affected; Kibra, Lindi, Mathare 4A and Mathare North, Baba Dogo, Githurai and Zimmerman," Sakaja said.
The Nairobi governor additionally stated that a multi-agency disaster management team has mapped out some of the areas adversely affected by the floods.
"Several bridges in the city have been affected namely; Mathare North John Saga, Huruma – Gateway Bridge, Ngumba bridge, 4B near Utalii hotel, Ngomongo (it was swept away), Githathuru footbridge near police depot, Sara, Ngombe footbridge.
"The bursting of the Ngong River banks has affected many areas across the city especially downstream including the flooding of Mbagathi Roundabout, flooding in Ectoville Industrial Estate in Mukuru kwa Rueben Ward, flooding in Mwiki Ward along Eastern bypass.
"The bursting of Mau Mau riverbanks has seen churches and residential houses flooded in Westlands Sub County.
"In Kiambiu informal settlement, Starehe Sub-county, at least 10 households have been affected. We already have an excavator clearing garbage that is interfering with the flow of storm waters.
"A bridge in Nairobi’s Mukuru-Kayaba Slum in South B was swept away. The NCCG mobility team is currently repairing this," Sakaja said.
Directives
Following the flooding in Nairobi, Sakaja issued four directives that he said should be followed immediately.
"I have also today directed the following;
1. All Private Service Providers (PSPs) to ensure all waste that is collected is taken to Dandora dumpsite. Any PSP found doing the opposite will face sanctions.
2. The suspension of All excavations along riparian areas with immediate effect.
3. All inhabitants along riverbeds and high areas MUST re-locate with immediate effect.
4. All citizens to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to safeguard themselves and their property, especially those living near riverbanks.
"Please heed all warnings and advisories issued by the relevant authorities and avoid unnecessary travel in flood-prone areas," Sakaja said.
Adding that; "The Nairobi County Government remains committed to addressing the challenges posed by the heavy rains and flooding. We are dedicated to implementing measures to mitigate future risks.
"All County Government Emergency services are on high alert and standby at the scene to provide the necessary support. In case of an emergency, you may reach the County following the hotline number 1508."
