Monday April 29, 2024 morning was not just like any other as locals of Nakuru County and Kenyans at large woke up to the devastating news of a tragedy that has claimed more than 40 lives.
As rescue and recovery of bodies went on, several leaders made to the scene.
However, the visiting of Nakuru County Governor Susan Kihika who accompanied Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to Kamuchiri Village in Maai Mahiu was a sigh of relief to locals.
Assuring residents of government support during this tragedy, they met survivors and families affected by the calamity.
Deputy President Gachagua described the incident as unfortunate, caused by a burst dam at Kijabe Hills following heavy rains over several weeks.
He disclosed that both national and county governments have deployed excavators to clear clogged drainages as a short-term solution.
Additionally, they announced plans to provide essential items such as foodstuffs, mattresses, and blankets to affected families, urging motorists to exercise caution near swollen rivers.
Governor Kihika shared the grim statistics, with 45 fatalities and 110 injured individuals currently receiving treatment in various Nakuru hospitals.
She mentioned the establishment of a rescue center at Ngeya Girls High School to aid in locating missing relatives and offering counseling.
Kihika also highlighted ongoing assessments of dams in Nakuru, with plans to evacuate locals to safer areas and empty some dams as precautionary measures.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi, Nakuru County Deputy Governor David Kones, and Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara commended the collaborative efforts of stakeholders including both levels of government, Red Cross, the National Youth Service, and KeNHA.
Author: Pristone Mambili
A trained Journalist with passion for Radio and online Writing.