Kenya faces an unprecedented crisis in the form of the 2023 El Niño floods, where relentless rains have transfigured serene rivers into torrents, overwhelming their banks.
The repercussions of this crisis extend far beyond mere inconvenience. A staggering 36 out of Kenya's 47 counties have been hit, witnessing a deluge of riverine floods, flash floods and landslides.
According to ReliefWeb, the plight has touched at least 95,772 households, with 45,083 of them displaced as of November. Currently, an estimated 13,108 households are living in 96 displacement camps, often makeshift shelters in schools and social halls.
The agriculture sector, a lifeline for many Kenyans, bears the brunt with over 17,600 acres of farmland destroyed and a heartbreaking toll of more than 13,400 livestock reported dead.
Simultaneously, essential infrastructure such as water and sanitation facilities have been severely compromised, disrupting normal services and limiting access to crucial water sources.
The supply chain for medical, nutritional and non-medical commodities has been thrown into disarray. Roads lie damaged, impeding emergency medical referrals, while health facilities grapple with prolonged power outages, impacting the care of individuals with chronic ailments.
The consequences are not confined to immediate material losses. There is an alarming escalation in the risk of cholera outbreaks, mental health challenges, loss of livelihoods, post-harvest losses and formidable food security challenges.
The trauma is palpable among various groups – those mourning family members lost to drowning, the injured, individuals grappling with respiratory infections, and those susceptible to communicable diseases and vector-borne ailments like malaria and Rift Valley Fever.
In such testing times, the true mettle of a government emerges. President William Ruto's Kenya Kwanza government, guided by the principles of the Bottom-Up Economic Model, has admirably mobilised resources to confront this unfolding disaster.
Acknowledging the urgency of the situation, the government promptly declared the floods a national disaster, setting in motion emergency response mechanisms to alleviate the impact on affected communities.
Swift action saw the deployment of disaster response teams, including the National Disaster Management Unit, a testament to the government's commitment to providing immediate relief.
Evacuation efforts continue, aiming to relocate families from high-risk areas to safer locations, thus minimising the risk of loss of life. Temporary shelters have been established, ensuring that those displaced by the floods have their basic needs for shelter, food and medical care met.
Further, the government has embarked on a comprehensive assessment of the damage caused by the floods.
This evaluation serves as the bedrock for a strategic recovery plan, outlining steps to rebuild and fortify vulnerable areas against potential future natural disasters. The government's dedication to a swift and effective response underscores the importance of a proactive approach to disaster management.
In addressing the current flood crisis, it is paramount to recognise the broader context of climate change. The ReliefWeb report on the El Niño floods in Kenya underscores the role of climate change in exacerbating these events, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to disaster resilience.
President Ruto's commitment to champion sustainable climate action within the East African Community reflects an acute awareness of the necessity for regional collaboration. His participation in COP28 provides a unique opportunity to advocate increased financial support for climate adaptation and mitigation efforts in developing nations.
The Bottom-Up Economic Model emerges as a crucial pillar aligning with the principles of sustainable development. In the face of Kenya's flood crisis and the looming spectre of climate change, President Ruto's leadership positions Kenya as a key player in the global fight against climate change. This model offers a framework for sustainable development that is inclusive, resilient, and responsive to the unique needs of local communities.
In the wake of Kenya's flood crisis and the broader challenges of climate change, a call for collective action resounds. From local communities to global leaders, stakeholders must unite in a shared commitment.
NGOs and humanitarian agencies must provide essential relief services, while the private sector can contribute resources. Individual citizens can play their part through volunteering and donations.
In the digital age, technology emerges as a critical tool for efficient disaster management. Geographic Information System mapping, satellite imagery, and real-time data analytics provide valuable insights into the dynamics of floods.
This technology optimizes resource allocation, identifies high-risk areas, and streamlines communication channels for a more effective response. Furthermore, technology empowers the public with timely and accurate information, enabling informed decision-making during crises.
The floods in Kenya transcend national boundaries, constituting a global crisis that demands solidarity, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to sustainable practices. Let us stand together as a unified front, mitigating the impacts of climate change and building a more resilient and sustainable future for all.
Member of Parliament East African Legislative Assembly