Kenya has experienced severe flooding due to heavy rains, leading to nearly 100 flood-related deaths since mid-March. The Education Ministry announced a one-week delay in the reopening of schools, originally scheduled for Monday, to allow for the repair of flooded schools. Over 100 schools have been affected, with collapsed walls and roofs reported. The country has been experiencing heavy rainfall since mid-March, with the Meteorology Department warning of more to come. Nearby countries such as Tanzania and Burundi have also been affected by flooding, with a reported 155 deaths in Tanzania and over 200,000 people affected in Burundi.
The situation in Kenya has been particularly severe, with the capital, Nairobi, experiencing the highest number of deaths due to flooding. Nairobi’s main airport was also affected, causing flights to be diverted and disrupting operations. The flooding at the airport was attributed to ongoing refurbishment work, with the contractor’s temporary drainage system being overwhelmed by heavy rains. More than 200,000 people across the country have been impacted by the floods, leading to houses in flood-prone areas being submerged and people seeking refuge in schools.
Efforts are underway to assist those affected by the flooding, with President William Ruto instructing the National Youth Service to provide land for use as a temporary camp for those displaced by the floods. The Kenyan Red Cross has been involved in rescue operations, including a recent incident where a boat capsized in Garissa county, resulting in multiple fatalities. The delay in reopening schools is a necessary measure to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff, as many schools remain adversely affected by the flooding.
The Education Ministry’s decision to postpone the reopening of schools has been met with understanding, as the priority remains on addressing the immediate challenges posed by the flooding. The government, along with humanitarian organizations, continues to provide assistance to those affected by the floods, including shelter and relief supplies. The impact of the flooding extends beyond Kenya, affecting neighboring countries in the East African region. The need for coordinated efforts to address the aftermath of the floods and mitigate future risks remains crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of communities in the region.
Overall, the flooding in Kenya has had a devastating impact, leading to loss of life, damage to infrastructure, and displacement of communities. The decision to delay the reopening of schools is a necessary step to address the immediate challenges posed by the flooding and ensure the safety of students and staff. Efforts are ongoing to provide assistance to those affected, with the government and humanitarian organizations working together to mitigate the impact of the floods. The situation remains critical, with the need for continued support and coordinated efforts to address the aftermath of the floods and prevent similar disasters in the future.
