Kenya's President has declared Friday a public holiday to mourn the 238 people who have tragically lost their lives due to ongoing flooding in the country. The devastating floods have left a trail of destruction, displacing over 235,000 individuals who are now seeking refuge in various camps.
In response to the crisis, the President has announced that the day will be dedicated to national tree planting activities aimed at combating the effects of climate change. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable practices.
Furthermore, the government has taken steps to address the impact of the heavy rains on the education sector. After a two-week delay caused by the inclement weather, schools across the country are set to reopen. The heavy rains had damaged hundreds of schools, affecting over 1,000 educational institutions. The government has allocated funds for the necessary renovations to ensure that students can resume their studies without further delay.
The meteorology department has issued warnings of continued moderate to heavy rainfall in most parts of the country, exacerbating the already dire situation. As a result, the government is actively evacuating individuals residing in flood-prone areas and near rivers and dams. Water levels in major hydroelectric dams have reached historic highs, prompting urgent action to safeguard lives and property.
In a bid to protect vulnerable communities, the government has initiated forced evictions in informal settlements such as Mathare and Mukuru in the capital city, Nairobi. Families residing in high-risk areas have been offered financial assistance amounting to $75 to facilitate their relocation. This measure comes after a deadline for voluntary evacuation passed amidst the relentless downpours.
