President William Ruto has vowed immediate government action to support families affected by the devastating floods that have hit Nairobi and other parts of Kenya.
The flooding, caused by heavy overnight rainfall, has left at least 23 people dead and displaced thousands, authorities confirmed.
“The ongoing flooding in parts of Nairobi and several other areas of our country has caused immense distress to many families, resulting in the tragic loss of lives, displacement of residents, and damage to homes, property, and livelihoods,” President Ruto said in a statement.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are also with all those whose lives have been disrupted by this disaster.”
The President assured citizens that the government is acting swiftly to prevent further suffering. “The Government stands in solidarity with every citizen affected, and we are acting swiftly to alleviate further suffering and safeguard lives,” he added.
President Ruto has ordered the immediate deployment of a multi-agency emergency response team. Led by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration and working with the Kenya Defence Forces and other emergency agencies, the team will coordinate rescue efforts, support affected communities, and move those in danger to safer locations.
In addition, the President said relief food from national strategic reserves will be released immediately for distribution to affected families.
“I have also ordered that relief food from our national strategic reserves be immediately released and distributed to families affected by the floods,” he said.
Medical support is also being prioritised. The government will cover hospital bills for victims receiving treatment in public health facilities. Emergency humanitarian assistance will be extended to families facing displacement and hardship.
President Ruto emphasised close collaboration with county governments. “The national government is working closely with the Nairobi City County Government and other county administrations to ensure a coordinated response that prioritises the safety and wellbeing of our citizens,” he said.
The floods have caused widespread disruption across Nairobi. Several areas, including Mukuru, Kibra, Mathare, Huruma, South B and C, Pipeline/Embakasi, Roysambu, Kahawa West, Githurai, and parts of Westlands, have been heavily affected.
Key highways, including Uhuru Highway, Mombasa Road, the Thika Superhighway, Jogoo Road, Enterprise Road, and Lang’ata Road, were partially or completely submerged, making travel nearly impossible in some sections.
The National Police Service (NPS) has been at the forefront of rescue operations. “We are pleased to report that 29 people were successfully rescued from various locations and are receiving the necessary support,” said Muchiri Nyaga, Director of Corporate Communication and spokesperson for the NPS.
He added that response teams remain fully deployed, attending to distress calls and continuing search and rescue missions.
President Ruto also highlighted the need for long-term solutions to the perennial flooding problem in urban areas.
“At the same time, we recognise that these floods once again highlight the urgent need for lasting solutions to the perennial challenge of flooding in our urban areas,” he said.
He pointed to ongoing initiatives, including the Nairobi River Regeneration Programme, as part of a broader strategy to reduce flood risks.
“The ongoing Nairobi River Regeneration Programme remains a critical part of our long-term strategy to restore river ecosystems, improve drainage systems, and reduce the risks associated with flooding within the city. These efforts will be strengthened and accelerated as part of our commitment to protecting lives, property, and the environment,” he said.
The President’s statement underlined the urgency of coordinated government action, immediate humanitarian support, and the importance of long-term urban planning to prevent future disasters.
As rescue operations continue, authorities remain on high alert, with the public urged to exercise caution and cooperate with emergency teams.
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