
Since March, Kenya has been grappling with the devastating impact of floods and landslides, resulting in the loss of 179 lives, according to government reports.
The disaster has forced hundreds of thousands of people to evacuate their homes. The neighboring countries of Tanzania and Burundi have also witnessed dozens of casualties due to the deluge.
Torrential rain has triggered widespread destruction, ravaging homes, roads, bridges, and vital infrastructure throughout the region. The death toll in Kenya surpasses that of the flooding caused by the El Nino weather phenomenon last year.
The floods come on the heels of last year’s rains, which followed a severe drought in many parts of East Africa, exacerbating the region’s woes.
In Kitengela, situated 33 km (20 miles) from Nairobi, Kenya Red Cross workers are engaged in rescue efforts, aiding residents stranded by floodwaters. Similarly, in Narok, located 215 km from Nairobi, efforts are underway to rescue tourists trapped in camps. Nairobi’s highways authority has taken measures to address the crisis by closing sections of highways leading to the city and several other roads across the country due to flooding and debris.
The severity of the disaster has drawn international attention, with Pope Francis expressing solidarity with the Kenyan people during a general audience at the Vatican. He conveyed his heartfelt condolences, acknowledging the tragic loss of lives, injuries, and widespread destruction caused by the severe flooding.