FLOODS IN NAIROBI

I n the wake of relentless rainfall, Kenya finds itself grappling with an escalating crisis as the death toll from floods and related incidents climbs to 228, according to the latest update from the interior ministry. The heavy downpours, which have triggered widespread flooding and landslides, show no signs of abating, with forecasts indicating a further intensification throughout May. The ministry's statement underscores the grim reality facing the nation, warning of impending flooding in low-lying, riparian, and urban areas, alongside the heightened risk of landslides and mudslides in regions characterized by steep slopes and ravines. Across East Africa's largest economy, the torrential rains have wrought havoc, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Homes, roads, bridges, and critical infrastructure have been swept away by the deluges, exacerbating the plight of communities already reeling from the adverse weather. The toll extends beyond the loss of life, with at le

I n the heart of Kenya, beneath the watchful gaze of Mount Kenya, lies Nairobi, a city of contrasts, vibrancy, and, recently, inundation. As the skies wept incessantly, Nairobi and its environs became submerged in a deluge that revealed not just the relentlessness of nature but also the vulnerabilities and resilience of its people. The saga began with a torrential downpour that seemed unrelenting, turning roads into waterways and homes into islands. From the Mathare slums to the upmarket estates, no corner of Nairobi was spared from the wrath of the heavens. In the aftermath, the city bore witness to a sobering reality: its development, a product of colonial legacies and rapid urbanization, had outpaced its infrastructure. Prof. Alfred Omenya, an urban planning expert, pointed out the inherent flaw: much of Nairobi rests upon floodplains, exacerbating the impact of torrential rains. Yet, amidst the chaos, Nairobi's spirit shone through. The Nairobi City County Government, under the