Nairobi Governor Announces Immediate Restoration of Flood-Damaged Bridges Before Schools Reopen

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has announced the immediate restoration of bridges in the city that were swept away by recent floods. The restoration work will be completed before the reopening of schools in April 2024.

Heavy rains in Nairobi have caused widespread flooding, displacing several residents and damaging infrastructure. At least 12 bodies have been retrieved from the Mathare River, and 18 people were rescued by the Kenya Red Cross.

Around 60,000 people, mostly women and children, have been severely affected in areas including Kibra, Lindi, Mathare, Baba Dogo, Githurai, and Zimmerman.

Governor Sakaja has issued directives to address the crisis, including the suspension of all excavations along riparian areas, the relocation of inhabitants living along riverbeds and high-risk areas, and the requirement for private service providers to dispose of waste at the Dandora dumpsite. He has also deployed more personnel and machinery to unclog drainages and halted all pending building approvals.

Why this matters: The devastating floods in Nairobi have resulted in loss of life, displacement of residents, and damage to critical infrastructure. The governor's swift response and commitment to restoring bridges before schools reopen highlights the urgency of addressing the immediate needs of affected communities and ensuring the safety and well-being of residents.

The Nairobi City County, responsible for providing various services to residents, is working with partners like the Kenya Red Cross to provide relief to affected residents and mitigate future risks. Governor Sakaja emphasized the importance of addressing encroachment on waterways to prevent future flooding incidents.

"We are working round the clock to restore normalcy in the affected areas and ensure that our children can safely return to school," Sakaja said. The county government has emergency services on high alert to provide necessary support, and residents are urged to remain vigilant and contact the County hotline in case of emergencies.

Key Takeaways

• Nairobi Governor Sakaja announces immediate restoration of damaged bridges.
• Heavy rains cause widespread flooding, displacing 60,000 and claiming 12 lives.
• Sakaja issues directives to address crisis, including suspending building approvals.
• Restoration work to be completed before schools reopen in April 2024.
• County government working with partners to provide relief and mitigate future risks.