Governor Johnson Sakaja has urged Nairobi residents to prepare early for the expected October El Niño rains, warning those living in vulnerable areas to cooperate with authorities if they are advised to temporarily move to safer locations.

🇰🇪 Breaking It Down

Speaking on Sunday at Bushiangala Church of God in Ikholomani, Kakamega County, Sakaja said Nairobi had stepped up measures to minimise the impact of flooding as the county prepares for the expected rains.

He said the county has brought together multi-agency teams to widen, deepen, clean and unclog drainage systems across the city while strengthening emergency response and disaster management.

Sakaja urged Nairobians to heed government advisories, participate in clean-up efforts and remain alert to official messages as preparations continue ahead of the rainy season.

📌 What You Need to Know

“We urge residents in vulnerable areas to temporarily vacate early when advised and cooperate with the authorities. Early action will be important in protecting lives and reducing the impact of flooding,” Sakaja said.

The governor's remarks came a day after Nairobi County intensified flood-preparedness activities across all 17 sub-counties, with environmental officers, the Green Army and ClimateWorX teams working in areas identified as vulnerable to flooding.

The teams have been clearing and unclogging drainage channels, culverts, and waterways, removing silt, garbage, and other obstructions that could impede the flow of rainwater.

The county has also mapped flood-prone areas across Nairobi to guide teams towards locations where drainage and water-flow challenges require urgent intervention.

“This work is part of our commitment to prioritise prevention and early action rather than waiting for flooding to occur before responding,” Sakaja added.

The county has said the preparedness exercise will continue across neighbourhoods as crews work to ensure drainage systems can handle increased water flows when the rains begin.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke