Kisumu residents count losses as floods maroon homes

Several homes in parts of Kisumu have been submerged by floods following a heavy downpour on Sunday evening.

Most affected areas are within Kisumu constituency including Central Kolwa and East.

The waters waded through farms and destroyed crops and property.

The affected families were forced to spend the night in the cold as they made every effort to salvage their property.

In Central Kolwa, the most affected areas include Bwanda, Kamuga, Akado and Oyola villages.

Area chief Elijah Omumbo said a local river broke its banks causing the overflow to the neighbouring villages and submerged many homes.

He said no life was lost as a result of drowning following the calamity even as they continue to asses the situation.

In the neighbouring East Kolwa location, the floods affected homes adjacent to river Auji and Nyamasaria which broke their banks.

Area Chief Otieno Kabisai said the water surrounded most of the homes making it difficult for others to access their houses.

Kabisai urged residents to be cautious during the rainy season to avert possible disaster. Various elected leaders visited the areas.

Market Milimani Ward MCA Seth Kanga visited the Ofunyu village to asses the situation.

According to Kolwa Central MCA Calvin Oraro, after river Maenya burst its banks, it affected various units within his ward.

He said the locals are frustrated and don't know where to go.

Oraro said they have asked for immediate response for those affected and to find places where the can sleep tonight and the coming days.

"We also have people whose houses have been submerged in water and as leaders we will work together to ensure that the people affected are helped."

The MCA added that they have taken temporary measures and urged some residents to shelter at Akado Polytechnic and Ofunyu Primary School which are now acting as rescue centres.

Nominated MCA Regina Kizito who also visited the area called on leaders to come together and help the affected families in Kolwa Central.

"I have seen the governor's people are on the ground, I know the senators office will also send people including the women representative among other leaders."

She said now was the time to show the people why they elected them by standing with them during this trying moment.

"We have seen children are hungry, women cannot even cook because everything is under water. There is urgent need for some aid."

Locals who spoke to the media called on the Kenya Red cross among other organisations to come to their aid during this moment.