Torrential rains and flooding in Kenya have resulted in an additional 66 fatalities over the past 24 hours, bringing the total death toll to 169 since March 1, with 91 people still missing, officials reported on Tuesday.
During a press briefing, Kenya’s government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura disclosed that the latest deaths, including 45 from a mudslide that engulfed villages, have contributed to the alarming death toll.
“In the last 24 hours, we have lost 66 individuals nationwide, comprising 60 adults and six children,” Mwaura stated.
Mwaura further highlighted that the floods have displaced Kenyans in 30,214 households, affecting approximately 190,942 people, with Nairobi experiencing the most significant displacement.
In response to the crisis, the Kenyan government has pledged to cover all hospital expenses for flood-affected individuals, particularly those impacted by Tuesday’s mudslides, alleviating financial burdens on families grappling with losses and displacement.
Triggered by heavy rainfall and overflowing rivers, the floods have submerged homes, damaged infrastructure, and disrupted critical services.
Collaborating with humanitarian organisations and local authorities, the Kenyan government has mobilized resources to provide urgent aid to flood victims.
President William Ruto convened a special Cabinet session on Tuesday to address the deadly flooding that has claimed nearly 170 lives.
Expressing condolences and solidarity, Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, conveyed heartfelt sympathies to affected families and the Kenyan people in light of the catastrophic floods wreaking havoc across the nation.
On Monday, over 40 people died following a dam rupture in Nakuru County, with the incident occurring in Mai Mahiu, approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) northwest of Nairobi.
