NAIROBI, Kenya – The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has stepped up measures to strengthen Nairobi’s road network against flooding as the country prepares for the anticipated El Niño-linked heavy rains.
The Authority said on Friday, September 18, that it is working with other agencies to improve drainage management, map flood-prone areas and coordinate emergency responses ahead of the expected increase in rainfall.
KeNHA said the measures are aimed at protecting road users and critical transport infrastructure from flooding and rain-related damage.
KeNHA Holds Multi-Agency Flood Preparedness Meeting
KeNHA’s team, led by Eng. Annete Aming’a, participated in a multi-agency meeting focused on drainage management, flood-risk mapping and coordinated responses to emergencies.
The meeting brought together agencies involved in preparing Nairobi for potential flooding as the rainy season approaches.
KeNHA said its interventions are intended to enable authorities to identify vulnerable sections of the road network and respond quickly when heavy rainfall causes damage or disruption.
Road Network Being Prepared for Heavy Rains
The Authority said it is strengthening the capacity of Nairobi’s roads to withstand flooding through several measures.
These include river monitoring, heavy-rainfall advisories, flood-risk mapping and drainage improvements.
KeNHA said the drainage interventions are being undertaken through the James Gichuru Junction–JKIA capacity enhancement project as well as emergency works framework contracts.
“These measures enable timely response to flood-damaged sections,” KeNHA said.
The Authority’s mandate includes managing, developing, rehabilitating and maintaining Kenya’s national trunk roads, with resilience and road safety forming part of its strategic objectives.
Nairobi Faces Flooding Risk
Nairobi is among areas expected to face increased flood risks during the coming rainfall season.
Recent climate and weather assessments have highlighted the capital’s vulnerability to urban flooding, partly because extensive built-up surfaces limit the absorption of rainwater.
Weather experts have also been monitoring the expected October–December rainfall season, with forecasts indicating the potential for above-normal rainfall in parts of East Africa.
Drainage Improvements Key to Flood Response
KeNHA said improving drainage is central to protecting roads during periods of intense rainfall.
The Authority’s previous planning documents have identified drainage and water management, vulnerability assessments and emergency response as important components of building climate-resilient roads.
Under the current preparations, monitoring systems and emergency works contracts are expected to help the Authority respond when sections of the road network are damaged or rendered difficult to use by flooding.
KeNHA Urges Continued Vigilance
KeNHA said it will continue working to enhance flood resilience on roads in Nairobi and other parts of the country.
The Authority said the measures are intended to minimise disruption to transport while protecting motorists, pedestrians and road infrastructure during periods of heavy rainfall.
Motorists and other road users are expected to exercise caution during heavy rains and follow official traffic and safety advisories as authorities continue monitoring weather and road conditions.
