Families displaced after River Sosiani bursts its banks

Floods have displaced more than 20 families and affected two hotels in Eldoret after River Sosiani burst its banks.

Homes and institutions near the river were among the hardest hit.

Residents were caught off guard as water levels rose rapidly.

River Sosiani cuts across Eldoret.

Uasin Gishu county police commander Benjamin Mwanthi has urged those living or operating near the river to move to safer areas as heavy rains continue.

“We have heavy rains in many areas and this is predicted to go on for some time. We are asking all those living near the river to move away until it is safer,” Mwanthi said.

Mwanthi, alongside County Commissioner Edisson Nyale, toured the affected areas to assess the extent of the damage as emergency efforts intensified.

Teams from the Kenya Red Cross were also deployed to sensitise residents and assist vulnerable families to relocate.

Despite the destruction, authorities said there had been no reported deaths or injuries so far. However, several homes and institutions were damaged after being overwhelmed by fast-moving water.

Governor Jonathan Bii said county disaster management teams were working with other agencies to respond swiftly to the situation.

“We have sent out teams to assess all parts of the county, especially those prone to floods,” Bii said.

There are growing concerns as water levels in several dams continue to rise to dangerous levels.

This raises the possibility that hundreds more families could be forced to move if the rains persist.

Floodwaters have already damaged roads and other key infrastructure, disrupting daily life.

Authorities have also issued warnings to residents in mudslide-prone areas, particularly in the Kerio Valley region, urging them to move to safer ground.

Last year, mudslides claimed more than 40 lives in Elgeyo Marakwet county, a stark reminder of the risks during heavy rains.

Governor Wisley Rotich said teams were on the ground working with various agencies to monitor the situation and prevent a repeat of past tragedies.

“The rains are increasing and we have asked those in risky areas along the Kerio escarpment to move to safer areas so that we avert the effects of floods on lives,” Rotich said.

For many families now displaced, the immediate concern is safety. However, the longer-term impact of lost homes, damaged property and disrupted livelihoods is beginning to take shape as the rains continue.