By Faridat Salifu
In the wake of catastrophic floods unleashed by unrelenting rains, António Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, has pledged the organization’s steadfast support to Kenya.
With a heavy heart, the Secretary-General lamented the tragic loss of life and the widespread devastation brought about by the floods, offering his deepest sympathies to the bereaved families and the Kenyan government.
The calamity resonated deeply as emergency teams raced against time in the search for survivors after a dam burst in Mai Mahiu, resulting in at least 35 fatalities as reported by global news agencies.
Since March, the persistent rains have inflicted a severe toll, claiming over 100 lives throughout Kenya with the onset of the rainy season.
This year’s floods are a continuation of last year’s intense rainfall, affecting close to 600,000 people across the country.
In a show of unity, the UN’s Resident Representative in Kenya, Dr. Stephen Jackson, expressed solidarity at a ceremony where emergency aid was distributed to those affected by the floods, an event presided over by Vice President Rigathi Gachagua.
The aid package, which reached over 300 households, included food supplies, bedding, water tanks, and tools crucial for rebuilding efforts.
Dr. Jackson highlighted the pressing challenge of the climate crisis facing Kenya, pointing out the country’s vulnerability to natural disasters, ranging from droughts to devastating floods.
The UN’s collaborative efforts on the ground, alongside national and international allies, have been instrumental in providing essential support to around 25,000 people, supplying food and necessities.
At the Dadaab refugee camps, the situation remains critical as the heavy rainfall has led to severe flooding and displacement.
The UNHCR’s Representative to Kenya, Caroline van Buren, called attention to the dire need for aid, with numerous refugees taking shelter in temporary accommodations on elevated terrain.
As UN agencies work in tandem with local authorities to safeguard the welfare of those impacted, the global community reaffirms its solidarity with Kenya during this difficult time, committing to ongoing support and aid for those affected by the floods.