Transport Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen has expressed concern that the flood situation in Garissa and Tana River counties may worsen if the rains persist over the next ten days.
Murkomen revealed that the Masinga dam is nearing full capacity, posing a potential threat to more families already affected by the severe flooding in these regions.
While inspecting the aftermath of floods along the Mombasa-Malindi road in Kilifi, where the Mbogolo bridge was swept away, Murkomen cautioned drivers against attempting to cross swollen waters.
He emphasized that those who defy this warning risk having their licenses revoked and could face charges of attempted suicide.
Murkomen attributed half of the reported deaths to negligence on the part of drivers.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua echoed similar sentiments, linking a number of deaths during the El Nino floods to what he termed as recklessness.
Gachagua criticized Kenyans for their ignorance and impatience, stating that 37 out of 87 reported fatalities were a result of individuals taking unnecessary risks in flooded areas.
In response to the crisis, State House spokesperson Hussein Mohammed announced that an emergency meeting chaired by President William Ruto led to the allocation of Sh.7 billion to address the effects of El Nino.
Part of these funds will be directed towards assisting dairy farmers, with Sh.500 million allocated to the New KCC to purchase excess milk during the rainy season.
Mohammed outlined the government’s humanitarian response plan, including the distribution of medical supplies, food and non-food items, infrastructure rehabilitation, and resettlement of displaced families.
Additionally, the government has airlifted medical supplies worth Ksh.180 million through the Kenya Defense Forces in collaboration with the Wajir county government.
In a move to enhance disaster response, an ad-hoc Cabinet committee chaired by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has been established.
The committee will coordinate efforts to address the nationwide floods that have resulted in loss of lives, displacement of families, and extensive property damage.
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