Government begins closure of flood victim camps nationwide

The government has begun the process of closing nearly 200 camps hosting victims displaced by recent floods.

Among the camps set for closure are two in Mai Mahiu, where over 60 people died, and 161 were displaced a month ago after a seasonal dam burst in the Old Kijabe area.

In response, the government announced plans to buy land for the Mai Mahiu victims, who have been sheltering at a church and a private institution since the disaster.

According to the CS for EAC and ASAL Development, Peninah Malonza, there were initially 198 active camps across the country, with 92 closed in the past week alone.

Malonza reported that over 300 people nationwide lost their lives, and more than 300,000 were displaced by floods affecting 32 counties.

“The President promised to resettle all those affected by the floods, and we have started by closing the active camps,” she said.

During her visit to the Mai Mahiu victims, Malonza reassured them that the government would fulfil its promise by purchasing land or facilitating their return to former homes.

Starting next week, the government will meet with Nakuru County officials to secure land for the Mai Mahiu victims before their resettlement.

Malonza also noted that 52 people remain missing nationwide due to the heavy rains, with Mai Mahiu being significantly impacted, where over 30 bodies are still unaccounted for.

She assured families of the missing that the search operations by KDF and NYS officers would continue until all bodies are recovered.

PS Kello Harsama stated that the government would continue supporting families in various camps until they are reintegrated into the community.

“We are visiting all flood-affected areas to assess the situation and support those in the camps,” he said.

Evangelist Lucy Wangunjiri, who has been hosting the Mai Mahiu victims, urged the government to keep its promise of resettling all victims.

“The victims have been directed to move to rental houses, and they are concerned about whether the state will follow through on its resettlement promises. Their concerns are genuine and should be addressed,” she said.