Floods: Ruto directs NDOC to intensify coordination for multi-agency response

Severe rainfall in various parts of the country over the past week has prompted a response from the National Disaster Operations Centre (NDOC) following a directive from President William Ruto.

The NDOC, housed within the Interior Ministry, has intensified its coordination efforts to address the challenges posed by adverse weather conditions.

According to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, multiple government ministries, departments, and agencies, along with humanitarian organizations are pooling resources to assist affected individuals.

The National Police Service (NPS) is leading search and rescue operations, both on land and in the air, while the Kenya Red Cross is augmenting these efforts.

Additionally, the Kenya Coast Guard Service (KCGS) has been instructed to enhance its response operations to further aid affected areas.

Public advisories are being regularly issued by the Meteorological Department and Road Agencies to alert citizens about areas at risk of flooding due to heavy rainfall.

Authorities are urging motorists and pedestrians to exercise caution and refrain from taking unnecessary risks in flooded or waterlogged areas.

In collaboration with County Government officials, County Security Teams across the country have been directed to ensure the compulsory evacuation of individuals in high-risk areas to safer locations.

Efforts to support those affected by the adverse weather conditions include the mobilization of food and non-food supplies by the government and its development partners.

Kindiki also said that to address the impacts of the ongoing rainfall on life, livestock, crops, and property, all available financial, human, and public resources, including equipment, are being deployed.

Members of the public are urged to cooperate with safety, health, risk, emergency, and communication teams dispatched to monitor, report, and provide assistance to those in distress.

“Everyone needs to remain vigilant and heed safety instructions to minimize the risks associated with the harsh weather,” he said.