Kajiado: The multi-agency team in Kajiado North has stepped up preparations for heavy El Ni±o rains. The rainfall is forecast to get to more than 400 millimeters in some areas from the second week of October through January next year.
According to Kenya News Agency, the preparedness measures come amid concerns from residents of flood-prone areas that more urgent action is needed to protect homes and infrastructure before the rains intensify. The national government has activated a Cabinet Committee on El Ni±o Preparedness, with counties expected to translate the early warning alert into local preparedness and response measures.
Kajiado County Director of Meteorological Services Benson Ogada noted that Kajiado North faces heightened flood risks due to its location at the foot of the Ngong Hills, with stormwater flowing downstream towards Nairobi. He stated that water draining from Ngong feeds into systems extending towards the capital. The Met department is providing the weather information on which preparedness plans are based and continues to disseminate weather advisories through various platforms.
Sub-County Administrator Samuel Muchiri shared that authorities had mapped several vulnerable areas, including Mathare, Gichagi, Scheme 305, Laini Saba, Milimani, Oloolua, and Gataka in Ongata Rongai. A disaster management committee chaired by the Deputy County Commissioner, which includes the fire department, Kenya Red Cross, public health officers, and other government agencies, has identified evacuation centers in churches and social halls.
Ngong-Kajiado North Municipality Manager David Kuntai stated that the municipality’s disaster response team, firefighters, a fire engine, and the Mazingira drainage unit are on heightened alert. He emphasized the seriousness of the El Ni±o issue and mentioned that preparedness meetings would be held every two weeks as the rainy season approaches. Kuntai also highlighted areas of concern such as Ngong Stream, Gataka River, and Mathare, advising residents against crossing flooded rivers.
Muchiri mentioned that authorities were addressing drainage problems associated with the stalled construction of the Riruta-Ngong Meter Gauge Railway, where diversions have previously caused stormwater to flow towards residential areas. Engineers from Kenya Railways Corporation have assessed the affected homes and are exploring measures to redirect stormwater to its natural course.
Progress has been made in clearing blocked drainage channels, particularly in Mathare, after residents voluntarily moved to allow access to drainage systems. Muchiri reported that authorities would continue to review preparedness measures as the rains approach, emphasizing the need for swift action.
Residents, however, feel more needs to be done. Benard Macharia, a Mathare resident, expressed the need for additional measures such as constructing terraces to control stormwater, despite drainage and garbage clearing efforts by government teams.
Public health teams are also preparing for potential disease outbreaks associated with flooding. Mary Metkei, Ngong Ward Public Health Officer, indicated that the health department is preparing medical commodities, conducting water safety awareness, and planning for water sampling and isolation in case of outbreaks like cholera. She highlighted the inadequate equipment for water surveillance as a concern.
The Kenya Meteorological Service Authority continues to issue advisories warning of a strong El Ni±o, expected to bring above-average rainfall from October through February 2027.
