President William Ruto has declared May 10, 2024, a public holiday.
The decision comes amidst the ongoing heavy rains leading to devastating floods and loss of lives.
Speaking during a meeting with grassroots leaders from Laikipia North and Kajiado Central at State House on Wednesday, May 8, President Ruto said the day will be for honouring those who have lost their lives due to the floods.
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As part of the commemorative efforts, Ruto said the day will be marked with a major tree-planting exercise aimed at mitigating climate change.
“We have set aside this day as part of our efforts to remember those we lost in the floods and it will be marked with a massive tree-planting exercise aimed at mitigating climate change,” Ruto said.
Ruto to give 10k to flood victims
On May 6, the Head of State announced a pledge of Ksh10,000 to every household in Nairobi affected by flooding, aiming to assist them in securing alternative accommodation.
Speaking in the Kiamaiko area of Mathare slums on Monday, April 6, 2024, Ruto emphasized the government's commitment to supporting displaced families during this challenging time.
"Households elfu arubaini hapa Nairobi ambayo wamehamishwa kwa sababu ya safety yao, kila boma serikali tutawapatia shilingi elfu kumi ya kutafuta makao mahali mutakaa mukingojea mipanga ya serikali," Ruto said," Ruto stated.
Flooding
The floods wreaking havoc across the nation have tragically claimed the lives of 229 individuals, with one more casualty reported in the past day.
According to the Ministry of Interior, a total of 174 people have been injured so far.
The situation remains dire, with 75 individuals still missing and nearly 47,000 households displaced, affecting around 234,000 people.
To provide shelter and support, the government said it has established 167 camps across 22 counties, accommodating approximately 70,000 people. The heavy rains have impacted over 285,000 individuals, and nearly 2,000 schools have been affected.
Forecasters predict continued heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in 20 counties, including areas around Lake Victoria, Western, Central, and the Coast.
This weather pattern poses risks of flooding in low-lying and urban areas, as well as potential landslides in hilly regions.
The situation around Lake Victoria is particularly concerning, as backflow from the lake is exacerbating flooding in surrounding areas. Additionally, the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Hidaya is expected to bring further rainfall and strong winds along the Coast.
While some regions like Eastern, Rift Valley, and Nairobi may experience occasional rainfall, parts of the Northwest, Northeast, and Southeast are forecasted to remain dry.
In response to the crisis, the government said it has taken measures to mitigate the floods, including conducting assessments of high-risk dams.
