The United Nations (UN) Kenya has expressed deep concerns and expressed its regret after devastating floods in Nairobi and other parts of the country claimed lives of more than 23 people, displaced and left thousands of families affected.
Through the UN Resident Coordinator in Kenya, Dr Stephen Jackson, the UN Kenya on Sunday, March 8 expressed its heartfelt condolences to President William Ruto, the Government and people of Kenya and all families who lost their loved ones or whose homes and livelihoods have been affected.
“These tragic events are a painful reminder of the growing impact of climate emergency, which is intensifying extreme weather patterns across the region,” Dr. Jackson said. “Floods, droughts and other climate shocks are becoming more frequent and severe, placing vulnerable communities at greater risk.”
The UN further assured that it stands in solidarity with the people of Kenya, and remains committed to working with the government and other partners to support immediate relief efforts while strengthening long term resilience, climate adaptation and preparedness to protect communities from future shocks.
Ministry’s warning
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health has alerted the public that the ongoing March-April-May long rains are expected to continue in several parts of the country.
However, the Ministry warns that while the rains are important for agriculture and water resources, they may also increase the risk of certain public health risks.
“Heavy rainfall and flooding can lead to contamination of water sources, increased breeding of disease vectors such as mosquitoes, displacement of communities, and disruptions to sanitation systems,” Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni said in a statement on Saturday, May 7 evening. “These conditions can contribute to outbreaks of communicable diseases and other health hazards.”
Potential health risks
The Ministry has since advised the public to remain vigilant for the following health risks that may increase during the rainy season:
- Water-borne diseases including cholera, typhoid, and diarrhoeal diseases resulting from consumption of contaminated water or food.
- Vector-borne diseases – including malaria, dengue, and other mosquito-borne illnesses due to increased mosquito breeding sites.
- Respiratory infections increased risk due to cold and damp conditions.
- Flood-related injuries – including drowning, trauma, and snake bites.
- Poor sanitation and waste accumulation which may further contribute to disease outbreaks.
Public health preventive measures
Members of the public are encouraged to take the following precautions to protect themselves and their families:
- Ensure drinking water is safe by boiling, chlorinating, or using approved water treatment methods.
- Maintain proper hygiene, including regular handwashing with soap and safe food handling practices.
- Use mosquito prevention measures such as sleeping under insecticide-treated nets, draining stagnant water around homes, and using repellents where necessary.
- Avoid walking or driving through flooded areas, as floodwaters may be contaminated and pose safety risks.
- Ensure proper sanitation and waste disposal to prevent contamination of the environment and water sources.
- Seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility if you experience symptoms such as severe diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, or difficulty breathing.
Nairobi County intensifies floods response
The Nairobi City County Government has intensified its flood response by deploying over 4,000 Green Army personnel to clear blocked drainage systems, remove waste from rivers and open up waterways to improve water flow across the capital.
The large-scale operation comes after Friday, March 6 night’s heavy rains triggered flooding in several estates, leaving homes inundated, motorists stranded and residents trapped in different parts of the city.
County emergency hotlines received numerous distress calls between 7 p.m. and 3 a.m., prompting the activation of disaster response teams.
Residents can report emergencies through the county hotlines: 020 2222181, 020 2223182, 020 2222183 and 020 2344599. 
