Mai Mahiu tragedy: Minors bear brunt as death toll hits 52

Minors have borne the brunt of the Mai Mahiu tragedy, which has claimed the lives of 52 individuals, according to the latest figures released by the State.

Of the 52 bodies recovered, 28 belonged to minors, underscoring the devastating impact on the younger population.

Despite efforts entering the fifth day, hopes of finding more survivors diminish by the hour.

In response to the catastrophe, the Ministry of Water has initiated the mapping of all mega dams amidst concerns of overflow due to heavy rainfall.

Zachariah Njeru, the CS for Water, emphasized the safety measures in place and assured continuous monitoring by Water Resource Authority officers.

During a visit to Ngewa Secondary School, Njeru pledged comprehensive government support for flood victims.

Additional personnel from KDF and NYS have been deployed to aid in recovery efforts and provide assistance to those affected.

Plans are also in motion to construct 100 mega dams and 1,000 medium dams to harness rainfall across the country, Njeru revealed.

Nakuru County Commissioner Royford Kibaara confirmed the recovery of 52 bodies, with 36 individuals still missing. Efforts to locate the missing persons remain ongoing.

In preparation for the reopening of schools, arrangements are being made to resettle affected families into rental houses and nearby Children’s homes, with provisions made for displaced students to resume classes promptly.

Felix Maiyo from the Kenya Red Cross highlighted ongoing efforts to trace missing persons, resulting in a decrease in the number of reported cases.

Jackie Osoro, CEC for Public Service and Disaster Management in Nakuru, announced plans by the county government to provide three months’ rent assistance to 46 households displaced by the rains, calling for collaborative efforts from stakeholders to aid in the recovery and resettlement process.