BUSIA, Kenya – The Kenyan government has ramped up its flood response in Busia and Kisumu counties, where thousands of families have been displaced by heavy rains and rising water levels.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr. Raymond Omollo, toured the flood-hit areas on Tuesday to assess the damage, oversee relief distribution, and engage with affected communities.
In Bunyala Sub-County, Busia, Dr. Omollo visited Lunyofu Primary School, now a temporary refuge for 500 displaced households.
He supervised the distribution of essential supplies, including rice, beans, blankets, and medical kits, emphasizing the government’s dedication to protecting vulnerable populations.
Over 3,000 households in the county have been affected, and Dr. Omollo called for sustainable resettlement efforts and infrastructural upgrades.
“The government is planning the construction of a new upstream dam and extending dykes to regulate water flow, support irrigation, and secure lives,” Dr. Omollo said.
He urged residents to heed evacuation notices and avoid dangerous areas such as unstable dams, roads, and bridges.
Later in Kisumu County, Dr. Omollo visited Ogenya Displaced Persons Camp, which shelters 1,973 households.
Here, he highlighted coordinated efforts with the Ministry of Health to prevent outbreaks of diseases like cholera and malaria.
Addressing local leaders, Dr. Omollo proposed strategies to mitigate future risks, including improved drainage systems, enhanced early warning mechanisms, and community education on disaster preparedness.
With climate change amplifying the frequency and intensity of such disasters, Dr. Omollo urged communities to embrace environmental conservation.
“Tree planting is a critical tool in combating climate change, ensuring food security, and safeguarding our environment. Let us come together to take action,” he said, promoting the Chief’s Climate Action Day initiative held monthly.
The flooding has taken a significant toll nationwide, displacing over 3,970 households, causing 12 deaths, and leaving one person unaccounted for.
Transport and agricultural activities have also been severely disrupted.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Omollo praised the multi-agency response teams, including the Kenya Red Cross, for their swift interventions.
In addition to flood relief, the PS addressed fishermen’s concerns over recent arrests, promising improved coordination and support for those impacted.
He also promoted the Taifa Care universal health program, encouraging residents to register for affordable healthcare.
With schools closed for the holiday season, Dr. Omollo reminded parents to prioritize children’s safety, particularly in flood-prone regions.
“Our collective vigilance can save lives and reduce risks during these challenging times,” he said.
The Principal Secretary was accompanied by Budalangi MP Raphael Wanjala, Kisumu Women Representative Ruth Odinga, Muhoroni MP Onyango K’Oyoo, and Busia County Commissioner Mwachaunga Chaunga.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr. Raymond Omollo, toured the flood-hit areas on Tuesday to assess the damage, oversee relief distribution, and engage with affected communities.
In Bunyala Sub-County, Busia, Dr. Omollo visited Lunyofu Primary School, now a temporary refuge for 500 displaced households.
He supervised the distribution of essential supplies, including rice, beans, blankets, and medical kits, emphasizing the government’s dedication to protecting vulnerable populations.
Over 3,000 households in the county have been affected, and Dr. Omollo called for sustainable resettlement efforts and infrastructural upgrades.
“The government is planning the construction of a new upstream dam and extending dykes to regulate water flow, support irrigation, and secure lives,” Dr. Omollo said.
He urged residents to heed evacuation notices and avoid dangerous areas such as unstable dams, roads, and bridges.
Later in Kisumu County, Dr. Omollo visited Ogenya Displaced Persons Camp, which shelters 1,973 households.
Here, he highlighted coordinated efforts with the Ministry of Health to prevent outbreaks of diseases like cholera and malaria.
Addressing local leaders, Dr. Omollo proposed strategies to mitigate future risks, including improved drainage systems, enhanced early warning mechanisms, and community education on disaster preparedness.
With climate change amplifying the frequency and intensity of such disasters, Dr. Omollo urged communities to embrace environmental conservation.
“Tree planting is a critical tool in combating climate change, ensuring food security, and safeguarding our environment. Let us come together to take action,” he said, promoting the Chief’s Climate Action Day initiative held monthly.
The flooding has taken a significant toll nationwide, displacing over 3,970 households, causing 12 deaths, and leaving one person unaccounted for.
Transport and agricultural activities have also been severely disrupted.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Omollo praised the multi-agency response teams, including the Kenya Red Cross, for their swift interventions.
In addition to flood relief, the PS addressed fishermen’s concerns over recent arrests, promising improved coordination and support for those impacted.
He also promoted the Taifa Care universal health program, encouraging residents to register for affordable healthcare.
With schools closed for the holiday season, Dr. Omollo reminded parents to prioritize children’s safety, particularly in flood-prone regions.
“Our collective vigilance can save lives and reduce risks during these challenging times,” he said.
The Principal Secretary was accompanied by Budalangi MP Raphael Wanjala, Kisumu Women Representative Ruth Odinga, Muhoroni MP Onyango K’Oyoo, and Busia County Commissioner Mwachaunga Chaunga.
