Residents in Nairobi's Eastleigh neighbourhood are expressing concern over the area's readiness for the imminent El Niño rains due to clogged drainage channels. Despite recent clean-up efforts, most drainage channels in Eastleigh remain obstructed by waste, prompting fears of flooding. The residents' concerns come as Kenya prepares for the expected rainfall. Eastleigh is one of the areas in Nairobi that is prone to flooding during heavy rains.
Earlier this week, teams from Climate Workx, a national government initiative, and Nairobi City County's Green Army spent several days clearing drains in the area. The teams used tools to remove debris from selected channels, but residents say the work was limited. Many drains, including those on Waudo Street and General Wariungi Street, are still full of waste. The residents claim that the clean-up efforts did not cover all the affected areas.
In the Shah Maan area along General Wariungi Street, locals report that drainage blockages have persisted for months and were not cleared during the recent operation. Some residents accuse Climate Workx of only partially removing waste, noting that large amounts remain inside the channels after the crews leave. This has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the clean-up efforts.
Residents like Mohamed Abdirahman, who lives on Waudo Street, say the drains are still full of waste despite the presence of equipment for a week. Neighbour Abdirizak Bulle expressed disappointment, pointing to demolished roadside structures that were removed in the name of drainage cleaning but saying the job was poorly executed. The residents' concerns are centred on the potential risks associated with clogged drainage channels.
Area chief Angela Nzioki, who led the operation, declined to comment when contacted about the state of the drains and the demolition of structures. Her silence has added to the residents' frustration, who feel that their concerns are not being addressed. The residents are now calling for further action to be taken to clear the drainage channels.
Residents fear that the remaining waste could block water flow once the rains begin, potentially flooding streets and affecting local businesses. The community is urging Climate Workx and the Green Army to return and fully clear the drainage channels before the expected rainfall arrives. The residents believe that this is the only way to mitigate the flood risk.
The situation in Eastleigh highlights the challenges of maintaining drainage infrastructure in urban areas. With the El Niño rains expected to hit Kenya soon, residents are anxiously waiting for the authorities to take further action to address their concerns. The effectiveness of the clean-up efforts and the preparedness of the area will be crucial in preventing flooding and its associated risks.
Key points
- Eastleigh residents warn of flood risk due to clogged drainage channels ahead of El Niño rains.
- Recent clean-up efforts by Climate Workx and Nairobi City County's Green Army were limited, leaving many drains still full of waste.
- Residents are urging authorities to return and fully clear drainage channels to mitigate flood risk.
