President William Samoei Ruto has ordered the immediate deployment of a multi-agency emergency response team following devastating floods that have hit parts of Nairobi and several regions across the country, leaving families grieving, homes destroyed and many residents displaced.
In a statement on Saturday, the President said the ongoing flooding had caused “immense distress” to families, with lives lost and livelihoods disrupted as heavy rains continue to pound urban and rural areas.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are also with all those whose lives have been disrupted by this disaster,” Ruto said.
The President announced that the government had moved swiftly to mobilise rescue operations to prevent further loss of life.
He directed the immediate deployment of a multi-agency emergency response team led by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, working together with the Kenya Defence Forces and other emergency agencies to coordinate rescue missions and evacuate residents from high-risk areas.
According to Ruto, the teams will focus on rescuing stranded families, supporting affected communities and relocating residents living in danger zones to safer areas.
“We are acting swiftly to alleviate further suffering and safeguard lives,” he said.
The President also ordered the immediate release of relief food from the country’s national strategic reserves to assist families who have been displaced by the floods.
In addition, the government will cover hospital bills for those injured or affected by the disaster and currently receiving treatment in public hospitals.
Emergency humanitarian support, Ruto said, will also be provided to households that have lost homes or property as a result of the flooding.
The national government is working closely with the Nairobi City County Government and other county administrations to coordinate rescue and relief operations.
Flooding in Nairobi has in recent years become a recurring crisis whenever heavy rains hit the capital, particularly in informal settlements and low-lying neighbourhoods located near rivers and poor drainage systems.
Ruto said the latest floods once again highlight the need for long-term solutions to the city’s drainage and environmental challenges.
He pointed to the ongoing Nairobi River Regeneration Programme as a key part of the government’s strategy to restore river ecosystems, improve drainage infrastructure and reduce flood risks in the capital.
“These efforts will be strengthened and accelerated as part of our commitment to protecting lives, property, and the environment,” the President said.
Authorities have urged residents living in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and cooperate with rescue teams as emergency operations continue.
