Members of the Kirinyaga County Assembly have urged the County government to take immediate and coordinated measures to prepare for the anticipated El-Niño rains. They warned that disaster management efforts must begin before heavy rains hit, rather than waiting for emergencies to occur. The MCAs raised concerns over inadequate preparedness, particularly in clearing drainage systems, securing vulnerable infrastructure, preparing emergency funds, and strengthening public health measures.
The concerns were raised during a debate on a motion by Murinduko Ward Member of County Assembly, Charles Nyamu Nyaga, on the County's preparedness to mitigate the effects of the anticipated heavy rains. Nyaga urged the County Executive to implement practical measures to protect lives, livelihoods, infrastructure, and essential services. He expressed concern over the slow pace of desilting waterways and opening up areas prone to flooding.
Nyaga called on the Departments of Finance, Roads and Transport, Environment, and Medical Services to explain the measures they had put in place ahead of the rains. He requested the Finance Department to provide details of the County Emergency Fund, including the amount of money available for preparedness and emergency response. The Roads and Transport Department was challenged to accelerate the opening and cleaning of waterways.
The Assembly directed the Finance Department to submit a report on the status of the emergency fund within seven days. The report should include available resources and how they could be used for preparedness, mitigation, and response. The Department was also required to provide an estimate of the financial requirements for the proposed interventions.
The Roads, Transport, and Public Works Department was given 10 days to assess drainage systems and storm-water channels in major towns, markets, and other vulnerable areas. They were required to prioritize cleaning, desilting, and unclogging of infrastructure presenting an immediate flooding risk. The Health and Public Health Department was directed to assess preparedness for disease outbreaks and other health emergencies.
Health Committee Chairman, Bosco Gichangi, noted that the County had set aside funds for emergencies but questioned the lack of visible interventions in flood-prone areas. He called for public health teams to visit affected villages, educate residents on preventive measures, and address sanitation concerns. Gichangi also cited Kagumo, where water flows from Gathuthuma towards the town, saying blocked and damaged culverts continued to worsen flooding.
The MCAs emphasized that the anticipated rains presented an opportunity for the County Government to strengthen disaster preparedness, improve drainage infrastructure, and establish long-term measures for communities that experience repeated flooding. They urged the County government to work closely with MCAs and other departments to ensure residents are protected from flooding.
Key points
- Kirinyaga County Assembly members demand urgent action to prepare for El-Niño rains
- County government urged to strengthen disaster preparedness and improve drainage infrastructure
- MCAs call for coordinated measures to protect lives, livelihoods, infrastructure, and essential services
