Wajir County Commissioner Karuku Ngumo has announced comprehensive measures to address potential flooding in the region in a move to safeguard the residents from potential disaster.
Speaking after a County Steering Group (CSG) meeting at a Wajir hotel, Commissioner Ngumo emphasized the importance of disaster preparedness and mitigation.Ngumo highlighted forecasts from the Kenya Meteorological Department indicating heavy rains expected between Friday and Sunday.
“Certain parts of this county might experience heavy rains resulting in floods, and we have mapped out those areas,” stated Ngumo. Moreover, he outlined plans to identify water bodies prone to overflow during heavy rainfall.
“We have equally mapped out the big water bands we have that are likely to overflow in case we experience heavy rains,” he added. He said that local authorities are actively engaging with residents to ensure timely response and community awareness.
“Ward administrators, chiefs, and ACCs are on the grounds sensitizing the people that they might be required to move to other areas if by tomorrow we see that the situation might get out of hand,” Ngumo explained. Wajir Deputy Governor (DG) Ahmed Muhumed echoed the CC’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for proactive intervention.
“As we assess the situation today and focus on what might be in the future, we are drawing up interventions and mitigative measures to reduce potential disasters,” stated the DG. Reflecting on previous challenges faced during flood incidents, the Deputy Governor stressed the importance of access to affected areas.
“Access to sites mainly affected by floods has been a major challenge in past seasons,” the DG noted, highlighting the necessity for expediting road construction projects. The Deputy Governor at the same time emphasized the need for collaborative efforts from all stakeholders to prevent a recurrence of past challenges.
“We are calling on the national government to expedite the construction of critical roads and urging all stakeholders to synchronise their efforts for maximum productivity,” the DG emphasised. While Wajir County remains free from flash floods, the authorities are maintaining vigilance and readiness.
“Anything could happen between now and the forecasted heavy rains, and it is a call for all actors, stakeholders, partners, and the business community to assemble their energies for optimum preparedness,” said the Deputy Governor.