Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has urged Kenyans to comply with safety measures during the forecasted El Nino rains. He emphasized that the government has put in place adequate measures to prevent loss of life and destruction of property. Kindiki stressed that it is a matter of national security and encouraged the public to follow instructions issued by security and disaster management agencies.
Kindiki made these remarks during a meeting with senior government officials and heads of departments and agencies responsible for handling El Nino preparations at the Official Residence in Karen, Nairobi. He instructed security agencies and administrators, including village elders, to strictly enforce all instructions issued by security and disaster agencies to save lives and prevent destruction of property.
The Deputy President stated that the national administration, working with county governments, development partners, and humanitarian agencies, is implementing response measures in disaster-prone areas. He assured Kenyans that the government has engaged all relevant stakeholders across national and county governments, as well as development partners and humanitarian agencies, to ensure a seamless disaster response and management.
Urban areas, such as Nairobi and Mombasa, have received attention to prevent disasters from flash flooding and other destructive tendencies associated with heavy rains. Kindiki noted that Nairobi's unique urban dynamics demand greater attention to minimize adverse impacts. Other counties, including Mombasa, Busia, and ASAL areas, are also likely to face significant impacts from this weather phenomenon.
The government has identified areas likely to face landslides and mudslides and will provide them with required attention. Kindiki assured Kenyans that the government is taking all necessary precautions to mitigate the effects of El Nino. He encouraged people not to worry or panic, as the government is working to ensure their safety.
Kindiki emphasized that evacuation orders must be complied with, and instructions restricting movement in flooded areas and rivers must be observed to avoid loss of life. He cited past incidents where failure to follow such instructions resulted in loss of life and destruction of property.
The Deputy President concluded by reiterating the government's commitment to saving lives and preventing destruction of property during the El Nino rains. He urged Kenyans to remain vigilant and comply with all safety instructions issued by relevant authorities.
Key points
- The Kenyan government has put in place measures to prevent loss of life and destruction of property during the El Nino rains.
- Deputy President Kindiki has urged Kenyans to comply with safety instructions during the forecasted El Nino rains.
- The government has identified disaster-prone areas and is working to mitigate the effects of El Nino.
