Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Executive Secretary Dr Workneh Gebeyehu has commended Kenya's quick response to the ongoing flood crisis in the country.
In a statement, Dr Gebeyehu lauded the efforts of the Multi-agency emergency response team set up by President William Ruto to respond to any eventualities, as a result of the floods.
The Authority said it stands in solidarity with the people and the government of Kenya in the wake of severe flash floods, as a result of heavy rains across the country.
"These floods have led to significant loss of life, displacement, and extensive damage to property and infrastructure across 24 out of 47 counties in the past week," the statement reads in part.
IGAD affirmed its commitment to collaborating with member states to address climate change through mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Dr Gebeyehu noted that the current forecasts highlight the persistent threat of heavy rainfall.
He insisted on the need for enhanced regional cooperation in early warning systems.
"Working together is our strongest asset in navigating the challenges we face and building a resilient future for generations to come,” he said.
IGAD said its Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC), forecasts for the week of April 27 – May 4, 2024, indicate ongoing threats of heavy rainfall in central to western Kenya, northern Uganda, southern Ethiopia, and central Somalia.
It said precipitation forecasts for May also suggest enhanced rainfall, particularly in the eastern part of the Greater Horn of Africa region.
"This poses a continued risk of flooding in hotspot areas such as the Juba-Shebelle basins and urban centres in areas with high probabilities of above-average rainfall."
IGAD called for extreme caution and vigilance throughout the region, emphasising the importance of adhering to safety measures and disaster preparedness protocols to stop more harm.
The Authority said it will continue providing timely forecasts and advisory measures to safeguard lives and livelihoods, to ensure a safer and more secure region for all.
The Government of Kenya set up a multi-agency emergency response centre on floods, based at Nyayo House, on Thursday.
In a press briefing, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said the team will monitor what is happening across the country.
He said the team will also initiate all necessary interventions to save the lives and properties of Kenyans.
"The multi-agency emergency response centre has been activated from 4 pm, this afternoon and shall be domiciled at Nyayo House," the DP said.
"Daily alerts will be issued to the people of Kenya to inform them of what is happening in areas where there is obvious danger and to appeal to them to cooperate with state agencies and other partners to save lives."