Residents of Kirinyaga County, Kenya, are sounding the alarm over the county's readiness for the expected heavy rains, warning that several areas remain vulnerable to flooding, landslides, and displacement. The Kenya Red Cross Society has identified several areas at risk, including Thiguku village in Ndia Constituency, where residents have previously been displaced, and Kariti village, where the Sagana and Ragati rivers frequently overflow.
According to Martin Kagunda, coordinator of the Kenya Red Cross Society, the county has previously experienced destruction of property, flooding of villages, and loss of lives during heavy rains. He warned that vulnerable areas could face similar risks this year. Kagunda identified areas near River Thiba, including Kithogondo, Ngurubani, Jambo Ville, and Mahigaini, as vulnerable to flooding. He also listed Kibirigwi and Nguguini in Ndia and Kamweti in Gichugu as areas prone to landslides.
The Kenya Red Cross Society has taken steps to prepare for the expected heavy rains. Kagunda said the organization's response teams have been trained in first aid and weather monitoring to facilitate rapid deployment in case of emergencies. The organization is also engaging the National Irrigation Authority on the desilting of drainage channels in Mwea. Additionally, the Red Cross is calling on the Kenya Urban Roads Authority, Kenya Rural Roads Authority, the county government, and Kenya Power to undertake early preparations, including checking drainage infrastructure and electricity lines and poles.
Residents, led by John Munene, and Tebere Ward MCA Peter Karinga, expressed concerns about the level of preparedness ahead of the rains. They noted that more than 1,000 people had previously been affected in Ngurubani town, Kithogondo, and Kiamanyeki. The issue has also come before the Kirinyaga County Assembly, where MCAs raised concerns over what they described as inadequate coordination between county departments and other agencies.
Abandoned quarries and swamps in Mahigaini, Ngucue, and Kinjinji have also been identified as potential risks during heavy rains. Kagunda cited a previous incident at Mahigaini quarry and a landslide in Kamweti that covered several acres of a tea plantation. The county government and other agencies have been urged to take action to mitigate these risks.
The Kenya Red Cross Society is working to mitigate the impact of the expected heavy rains. The organization is engaging with local authorities and other stakeholders to ensure that necessary preparations are made. Residents are also being sensitized on the risks associated with the heavy rains and the importance of taking precautions.
As the county prepares for the expected heavy rains, residents and authorities are urged to take necessary precautions to minimize the risks. The county government, Kenya Red Cross Society, and other agencies must work together to ensure that vulnerable areas are protected and that residents are prepared for the worst.
Key points
- The Kenya Red Cross Society has identified several areas at risk of flooding and landslides in Kirinyaga County.
- The county has previously experienced destruction of property, flooding of villages, and loss of lives during heavy rains.
- The organization is engaging with local authorities and other stakeholders to ensure that necessary preparations are made.
