Kagumo residents stranded after floods make paths impassable

The affected residents, led by Mzee John Njue, Edith Wawira and Fidelis Wambui, say they are now forced to wake up very early each day to help their children cross the river safely. Others have resorted to taking longer alternative routes to access essential services.

Motorists and boda boda operators are also struggling to navigate the area, disrupting transport and economic activities in the predominantly agricultural region.

“We grow French beans, tomatoes and maize, but we are having a very difficult time transporting our produce. Buyers are also struggling to reach us,” said Fidelis Maina.

Wambui highlighted additional safety concerns, noting that residents are sometimes forced to carry people across the river, particularly those returning from a bar located on the opposite side.

“There is only one bar across the river, so we have to carry some people on our backs to ensure they get home safely, especially with the ongoing rains,” she said.

Parents say they have been compelled to keep a close watch on their children, particularly during weekends, due to the increased risk posed by the swollen river.

“We are appealing for urgent intervention from the Kirinyaga County Government. The water levels have risen above the destroyed culvert,” said Mzee Njue.

Residents are now calling on the county government to urgently repair the damaged culvert to restore movement and avert potential loss of life.