President William Ruto has reassured the people of Mai Mahiu that the government is committed to rebuilding all homes destroyed by the recent flash floods.
Speaking to victims of the tragedy sheltered at Ngeya Secondary School on Tuesday evening, Ruto pledged that the government would assess the situation in the area before making decisions about relocation.
"We will find a temporary place for you to stay while we make plans for the future," stated President Ruto, accompanied by Cabinet Secretaries Moses Kuria and Peninah Malonza, as well as Gover Susan Kihika.
Acknowledging the eagerness of many to return home, Ruto urged patience, as the government sends experts to make assessments of the area that would guide decisions on rebuilding or relocation.
“I know there are many here eager to head back home, but I am urging you to be patient. The government will send experts to assess the area to ascertain whether or not something like this will happen again. If we receive feedback that the experts are certain something like this won’t happen again, the government will rebuild for you there, however, if we receive feedback that the experts are not certain, we will relocate you, and if need be, we will purchase the land and build for you,” assured President Ruto.
The government will also cater for the medical expenses arising from the tragedy as well as the burials of those who have lost their lives.
Ruto emphasised the need for residents in high-risk areas to move within the next 48 hours, as the heavy rains are predicted to continue over the next week.
In addition to the National Youth Service (NYS), the Kenya Defence Forces will join in search and rescue efforts, announced Ruto, assuring that sufficient food and assistance would be provided to those affected.
The government's response follows a tragic incident reported by Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, revealing 45 fatalities and 73 injuries in the Mai Mahiu area.
Mwaura assured that the government would cover all medical expenses and appealed to healthcare workers to prioritise assistance over financial interests.
Recent floods have claimed 66 lives, including individuals in various regions across Kenya, bringing the total death toll to 169 since the onset of the current rainy season.
Furthermore, 102 individuals have been injured, and 91 are reported missing, with Mai Mahiu and Garissa accounting for a significant number of missing persons.
The floods have displaced over 30,000 households, affecting approximately 150,000 individuals, with ongoing search, rescue, and retrieval operations in affected areas.
The Ministry extended condolences to families affected by the disasters and reiterated the government's commitment to providing support and assistance during this challenging time.
