'We will move you whether you like it or not,' President Ruto tells flood victims

President William Ruto has announced that people living in areas prone to flooding will be moved, whether they like it or not, to ensure they do not endanger their lives.

As he was presiding over the official opening of Bunge Tower in Nairobi on Thursday, Ruto expressed concern at how floods in different parts of the country have caused loss of life and property.

“I will be having another emergency session tomorrow with multi-agency teams to make sure we provide adequate support to all those in need and to move citizens who are in dangerous areas that may be susceptible to floods,” he said.

“Unfortunately, we will have to move some of them without them agreeing because otherwise they put themselves in danger.”

The Head of State said that he has authorized the National Youth Service (NYS) to provide land for the residents who will be displaced due to the raging floods.

“I have authorized the National Youth Service to provide land for those who are living dangerously in some of these areas for them to be moved to safer grounds as we decide what to do with them,” President Ruto said.

He averred that the NYS and the military have been mobilized and implored members of the National Government to work with counties to support those in distress.

He added that Deputy President (DP) Rigathi Gachagua will be meeting with all the other actors including development partners on Friday to facilitate greater collaboration to deal with the flood disaster.

Heavy rains have rocked various regions in the country, with the Kenya Meteorological Department predicting that the situation will continue through June 2024.

As a result of heavy rain, rivers and dams have burst, leading to homes being submerged. Flood victims in certain regions have had to wait on treetops and roofs until the waters recede before seeking safety.

Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki has announced the government's move to step up efforts to support people affected by floods occasioned by the ongoing rains in the country.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Kindiki stated that there is coordination of a multi-agency response involving relevant government ministries, state agencies, as well as humanitarian organizations to offer support to affected individuals.