100 goats killed, families displaced in Turkana floods

More than 100 goats died and numerous families were rendered homeless on Thursday night after floods swept through Turkana County.

The families living in Kalemngorok, Lowarengak, Kalemngorok and Todonyang villages were forced to relocate to safety following the flooding.

Over the last one week, Turkana County has experienced heavy rainfall that has led to floods. The floods left a heavy trail of destruction and residents lost their belongings.

The heavy rains have led to blockage of drainage systems, and roads have been rendered impassible. Residents have lost access to basic amenities such as of schools and hospitals.

“Accessing schools and medical facilities is difficult in these areas. Providing food aid is not easy since the water is flowing fast and whoever dares to will be swept away. KCPE is going to start next week. It’s horrifying because if the current situation persists, vehicles will not deliver the exam materials” Abdi Mohamed, who is a resident, said.

Mohamed further urged the county to unclog the blocked drainage system to avoid outbreak of diseases. He also called on Non-Governmental agencies to chip in by supplying relief food to the affected people.

Emmy Emuron, a nurse in Lowarengak Dispensary, said she is unable to reach her station since it is located is in the other side of the flooded river.

Charles Lokyoto, who is in charge of disaster response in Turkana County, advised residents to avoid flood prone areas. He identified areas like Napetet, Carlifonia and Soweto as danger spots and he asked the residents to move away temporarily.

Turkana County Government had earlier allocated Ksh800 million to deal with El-Nino, but people have not been assisted by these funds because of the logistical challenges brought about by the floods.

The Meteorological Department has issued a warning that three quarters of the Turkana’s population will be affected by El-Nino rains.