By Lauryne Akoth
President William Ruto visited Mai Mahiu in Nakuru County to condole with the families affected by flash floods.
A statement by the government’s spokesperson Dr.Isaac Mwaura revealed that a total of 45 individuals lost their lives in the tragic incident.
“Poleni sana watu waMai Mahiu kwa kupoteza watu wenu.Hapatumepotreza watu karibu 48, watoto, wazee na kina mama,kuna wengine ambao hawajapatikana na ndio sababu NYS iko hapa,” Said President Ruto.
He additionally mentioned that following the tragic incident, he ordered the National Youth Service and the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to collaborate in finding the reported missing persons.
Furthermore, he pledged that the government would compensate the affected victims who lost property in the tragic incident as well as help them rebuild the houses destroyed in the aftermath.
He reiterated the cabinet’s decision to cater for all medical bills for those hospitalized as well as burial ls for those who tragically passed away.
Read More: “91 Missing, 30,214 Households Displaced,” Government’s Spokesperson
The president also emphasized that the government is prepared to acquire land to relocate the displaced residents of Mai Mahiu, aiming to prevent future flash flood incidents for those in the vicinity.
Furthermore, he reiterated the Kenya Meteorological Department’s alert regarding persistent heavy rainfall and highlighted that the cabinet has directed the prompt evacuation of individuals residing in riparian zones within 48 hours to prevent further loss of life.
He also assured that these individuals would receive priority in the urban housing plan.
Read More: Cabinet Orders Immediate Evacuation Of Kenyans Living In Risk Prone Areas
The President also underscored the importance of managing the country’s affairs within the current context of climate change which he attributed the current floods to.
He commended the Kenya Red Cross, World Health Organisation, Amref, and other organizations for helping with the rescue mission.