We may not control the weather but we can prepare

The recent heavy downpours in Kenya have once again brought to light the devastating consequences of floods, particularly in Nairobi, our nation’s capital.

Lives have been lost, homes destroyed, and over 10,000 people displaced. It’s a scene of despair and devastation that seems all too familiar, yet the government’s response remains inadequate, leaving me to wonder: when will real long-term solutions be implemented?

As the rains continue to pour, the floods have wreaked havoc across various parts of Kenya including Garissa where a boat capsized with 45 people on board.

According to government statistics released on Saturday, flash floods have inundated roads,residential areas, companies and institutions including schools, resulting in the displacement of over 130,000 individuals from 24,000 households. The majority of these affected households are located in the capital city of Nairobi.

Families have been rendered homeless, their dwellings either submerged or swept away by the relentless currents in places like Mathare, Kasarani, Kibra, Makadara, Roysambu, Kamukunji, Embakasi and Westlands.

Tragically, lives have been lost in the chaos, compounding the already dire situation. Moreover, the mixing of floodwaters with sewage poses a severe health risk because soon there will be an outbreak of waterborne diseases, threatening the well-being of those affected.

It’s high time for the government to step up and address this recurring crisis with urgency and efficacy. Merely responding to the aftermath of floods is not enough; proactive measures must be taken to mitigate the impact and prevent future calamities.

Government-NGO Partnerships for Shelter Construction
The government should collaborate with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to construct shelters for flood victims. These shelters can serve as temporary housing for displaced families, providing them with a safe haven during times of crisis. Additionally, they will also help to prevent unnecessary life loss because people in danger of flooding can be moved earlier.
Construction of More Dams
Investing in infrastructure such as dams can help regulate water flow and prevent flooding in downstream areas. By strategically constructing dams in flood-prone regions, the government can effectively manage water resources and minimize the risk of catastrophic floods. Furthermore, these dams can also serve as sources of hydropower, contributing to sustainable energy production for the nation.
But it shouldn’t end with construction, because the current continuous heavy rains have seen dams like Kijabe break and wreak havoc on a whole village in Mai mahiu. It is therefore important that there be a plan for such situations.

There should be a clear directive in how to handle excess water from over incapacitated dams to prevent flooding.

For example, constructing spillways allows controlled release of water from the dam during heavy rains, preventing overflow and subsequent flooding.
Implementing effective reservoir management strategies, such as adjusting water levels in anticipation of heavy rainfall, can help mitigate the risk of flooding.
Building upstream storage facilities or reservoirs can temporarily hold excess water during heavy rains, releasing it gradually to prevent downstream flooding.
Regularly removing sediment buildup in dams and reservoirs increases their capacity to hold water, reducing the risk of overflow during heavy rainfall events.

Sustainable River Management
In addition to dam construction, the government should prioritize the implementation of comprehensive flood control measures. This includes the maintenance of drainage systems, the construction of levees and embankments along rivers, and the establishment of early warning systems to alert communities of impending floods.
Rivers play a crucial role in Kenya’s ecosystem, but they can also pose a threat when they overflow their banks like Athi River. To mitigate river flooding, the government should invest in sustainable river management practices, such as reforestation along riverbanks, soil conservation measures, and watershed management initiatives. By restoring natural habitats and improving water retention capacity, we can reduce the risk of riverine flooding and safeguard our environment for future generations. They could also relocate people living in flood prone arrears to safer regions and use the land for agriculture.

While government intervention is crucial, empowering communities with knowledge and resources is equally vital in the fight against floods. Civic education plays a pivotal role in equipping individuals with the tools to mitigate risks and protect themselves during emergencies.Community-led initiatives can include:
Civic Education and Emergency Preparedness
Collaborating with local leaders, schools, and community organizations, the government can conduct comprehensive civic education campaigns on flood preparedness and safety measures. These initiatives can include workshops, public awareness campaigns, and the distribution of educational materials detailing evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and first aid procedures. By empowering citizens with knowledge, we can ensure that they are better equipped to respond effectively to flood emergencies.

Community-Based Early Warning Systems
Establishing community-based early warning systems can significantly improve disaster preparedness and response efforts. By leveraging local networks and technology, such as mobile phones and radio broadcasts, communities can receive timely alerts and evacuation notices in the event of impending floods.
But most importantly, there is no point in having a meteorological department if the information they give is not being taken seriously and used in a timely manner. This is because the agency provides valuable information that is taken lightly until a crisis occurs.
Training community members to monitor water levels, weather patterns, and other indicators can further enhance the effectiveness of early warning systems, enabling swift action to save lives and minimize damage.

Importance of Community-Led Flood Resilience Projects
Encouraging community participation in flood resilience projects can foster a sense of ownership and empowerment among residents. This can involve initiatives such as the construction of raised platforms or elevated shelters in flood-prone areas, the planting of trees and vegetation to stabilize riverbanks and absorb excess water, and the implementation of rainwater harvesting systems to reduce runoff and erosion. Engaging local communities in the planning, implementation, and maintenance of such projects not only enhances their effectiveness but also strengthens social cohesion and resilience in the face of adversity.

Kenya’s flood crisis is a complex and multi-faceted challenge that requires collective action and solidarity at all levels. By engaging communities, empowering citizens, and implementing proactive measures, we can build a more resilient nation that is better prepared to withstand the impacts of climate change and natural disasters. Let us unite in our efforts to protect lives, safeguard livelihoods, and build a brighter future for all.

But even as we strive to survive the floods as a country, it is not too early to start thinking about the potentiality of having to deal with the hunger crisis as one of the aftermath.
By Maryline Josephine