NAIROBI, Kenya – The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has urged the national and county governments to strengthen preparations for the October–December rainy season, warning that inadequate disaster response could expose vulnerable communities to preventable deaths and displacement.
In a press statement dated Monday, October 19, 2026, the commission called for immediate action to translate weather forecasts into practical interventions, including timely warnings, safe evacuations and uninterrupted access to essential services.
KNCHR acknowledged preparedness measures undertaken by the government following forecasts from the Kenya Meteorological Services Authority (KMSA), but cautioned that having contingency plans alone does not guarantee readiness.
The commission said preparedness should be measured by the ability of authorities to prevent avoidable harm, protect lives and provide timely emergency assistance.
It identified children, women, older persons, persons with disabilities, migrants and people living with chronic illnesses as among those requiring particular protection during extreme weather events.
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The commission outlined a series of measures it wants national and county governments to implement as the rainy season progresses.
It called for coordinated emergency planning involving the Ministry of Interior, the National Disaster Operations Centre, the Council of Governors and county administrations, including clearly defined responsibilities and the pre-positioning of emergency supplies in high-risk areas.
KNCHR also urged authorities and media organisations to communicate timely weather warnings in accessible formats and local languages, including Kenyan Sign Language.
The alerts, it said, should provide clear information on potential risks, evacuation instructions, shelter locations and emergency contacts.
On evacuation and relief operations, the commission called for safe and dignified shelters with clean water, sanitation, privacy and protection against violence and discrimination.
It further urged the Ministry of Health, county health departments and other relevant agencies to maintain access to essential medicines, emergency treatment, ambulances, maternal healthcare and immunisation services.
The commission also stressed the need to protect children and ensure continuity of learning and national examinations during emergencies.
With national examinations taking place during the period, KNCHR called for contingency arrangements to help candidates safely access examination centres, including alternative venues where necessary.
Where schools are used as emergency shelters, authorities should minimise disruptions to learning and examinations while prioritising children’s protection and family reunification.
Government Urged to Protect Food Security and Public Resources
The human rights commission also called for measures to protect livelihoods, food security and the environment during the rainy season.
It urged agricultural authorities and social protection agencies to provide needs-based food assistance and support affected households, while ensuring that relief distribution is fair and free from discrimination.
The National Environment Management Authority, Water Resources Authority and county governments were also urged to protect wetlands and water sources, maintain drainage where appropriate and enforce environmental safeguards.
KNCHR called on the National Treasury and county governments to allocate adequate resources for disaster preparedness, response and recovery, insisting that procurement and expenditure must be transparent and prudent.
It further urged Parliament, county assemblies, the Controller of Budget and the Auditor-General to strengthen oversight of emergency funds and ensure that complaints about exclusion, abuse and discrimination are addressed.
KNCHR Calls for Accountability in Flood Response
Commission chairperson Claris Ogangah said preparedness must go beyond planning and be demonstrated through timely action, effective coordination and protection of people at risk.
The commission said it would continue monitoring the human rights impact of floods, El Niño and other extreme weather events, receiving complaints and engaging responsible institutions to address violations.
Members of the public with information on human rights concerns related to disaster preparedness and response can contact KNCHR through email at haki@knchr.org, SMS on 22359, WhatsApp on 0798 849 871 or the toll-free line 0800 720 627.
The commission emphasised that preventing avoidable deaths, protecting livelihoods and safeguarding access to healthcare, water, sanitation and education are essential obligations during emergencies.
It urged both levels of government to act decisively as the rainy season progresses, with particular attention to communities most exposed to flooding and other extreme weather risks.
