By: Sophie Li
Many Kenyans are expressing anger and frustration with their government’s handling of recent floods, pointing to demolitions of homes, unexpected evictions, and slow aid distribution.
The effects of natural climate phenomena, compounded with climate change, have led to especially strong rains. As the flooding progressed, Kenya’s lack of preparedness became apparent. Many of the displaced are frustrated at the government’s ineffective response in addition to their reckless demolitions and inhumane treatment of flood victims.
Kenya’s floods have destroyed bridges, homes, and schools, as well as 40,000 acres of cropland. As of May 5, 228 people have been killed with 72 still missing, while over 40,000 households have been displaced. Millions more throughout Eastern Africa have been affected.
The Kenyan government and other aid groups have provided settlements and other necessities for the displaced.
“Those displaced because of their safety will have alternative and decent place to stay. Each family will get Sh10,000 to facilitate this cause,” said President of Kenya William Ruto. This amount is equivalent to around 77 USD.
The President also claimed that all victims will be “treated in a humane way.”
However, flood victims tell a different story.
“They should never have done this to us,” Isabella Mogeni, a resident whose house was demolished by Kenyan officials, said to NPR. “I have no clothes to wear apart from what I have now. If we had a notice, we would have moved away.”
The government had ordered the demolition of all buildings illegally built, which were at higher risk of flood damage. Multiple civilians have died due to bulldozers, according to the Associated Press.
“Currently, safety and health, as well as access to food, clean water and vital services remain paramount,” said UNICEF Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa Etleva Kadilli. Hundreds of families are currently in such a dire situation.
Other residents are frustrated at the slow speed of the government response.
“We want the government to speed up recovery because we know there many bodies still buried under the rubble. There are children’s bodies still here,” Peter Njuguna, a village elder, told NPR. “And we also want those who are now homeless to get new homes quickly.”
Despite documenting twenty-one flood-prone areas, the government has only built a flood forecast system in one. In addition, the number of hydro-meteorological networks is much lower than the recommended number. Both issues bring to light the Kenyan government’s lack of preparedness for natural disasters.