Nearly 900 families displaced by floods in Kisumu, Migori

By George Juma and Aly Abich

Hundreds of families have been displaced in Kolwa East, following flash floods as long rains continue to pound most of Kisumu county.

Most homes have been flooded since Monday, forcing families to relocate to higher ground in fear of the worsening situation.

According to Kolwa East MCA Steve Owiti, schools such as Orongo, Nyaimbo, Bungu, Obino, Anywang, Masawa, St Francis Nyamonge, Buoye, Nyatege and others have been marooned.

He said the county government has contacted the Kenya Red Cross to assess the situation and intervene through distribution of food and non-food items.

Speaking to Radio Ramogi, Owiti urged families not to wait for the disaster but move to safer places early enough to avoid loss of lives.

In Nyatike, Migori County, floods have rendered at least seven schools inaccessible, paralysing learning activities.

According to the area sub county deputy county commissioner, the raging foods have affected five primary and two secondary schools.

She stated that a few students in the upper classes were able to access the schools via boats, while the younger students were stranded.

Plans are underway to integrate the affected students into nearby schools that have not been affected by floods.

Approximately 897 households have been affected with fears that the nightmare will last much longer if the rains continue at their current intensity.