President William Ruto has said the government has set aside Sh2 billion to support preparedness and mitigation measures ahead of the anticipated El Niño rains, as authorities move to cushion Nairobi residents from possible flooding.
The President said the funds will be used to strengthen drainage systems, clear blocked waterways and enhance emergency response in flood-prone areas of the capital.
“Tumetenga bilioni mbili za kusaidia kukabiliana na mafuriko ya El Niño, wananchi wa Nairobi wasisumbuke,” President Ruto said, assuring residents that the government is fully prepared to manage the impact of heavy rains.
He spoke during a tour of Nairobi projects, where he emphasised that lessons learnt from previous flooding incidents had informed a more proactive approach this time, aimed at preventing loss of life, displacement of families and destruction of property.
Mr Ruto noted that the intervention will target areas that have historically been most affected by flooding, with county and national agencies expected to coordinate closely in implementing the preparedness plan.
“We are not waiting for disaster to happen. Our focus is prevention, preparedness and rapid response so that Nairobi residents can go about their lives without disruption,” he said.
The Head of State also urged residents in flood-prone areas to cooperate with disaster management teams and adhere to early warnings issued by meteorological and emergency response agencies.
The announcement comes as the Kenya Meteorological Department continues to warn of above-normal rainfall associated with the El Niño weather pattern, raising concern over possible flooding in major urban centres, displacement of households and strain on infrastructure.
The government says the Sh2 billion allocation will support both short-term emergency measures and longer-term interventions aimed at improving urban drainage and strengthening climate resilience in Nairobi.
