Mavoko: Over 100 households across Katani, Airways, Kamulu, Githunguri, and Syokimau in Mavoko sub-county, Machakos, have been evacuated by the county government following severe floods. The heavy rains have caused extensive damage in the region, leaving some families stranded in their homes while others have seen their homes and businesses submerged.
According to Kenya News Agency, emergency response teams have been deployed to relocate affected families to safer locations and provide them with essential food and non-food supplies. During the rescue operation, Nathaniel Nganga, the CECM for Lands, Housing, Urban Developments, Roads, and Transport, advised residents against building on riparian lands. Preliminary findings indicated that blocked waterways were a major cause of the flooding.
Nganga urged residents and property developers in Machakos to seek approval from the Lands Office before starting construction projects to ensure compliance with legal and safety standards. This measure aims to protect future occupants and prevent similar flooding incidents. He emphasized the importance of due diligence when purchasing land to avoid acquiring property on riparian lands.
Nganga announced that the County government plans to deploy surveyors and building engineers to thoroughly assess the affected areas. Structures found to be constructed along waterways will be marked for demolition, as the county intends to enforce regulations strictly. Nganga also warned Land and Urban Housing officers that they would face legal consequences if they approved construction on riparian lands.
