This archive report was first published on 24 October 2019.
Kenya: Floods Wreak Havoc in Wajir, Mandera as Locals Call for Help ¶
Heavy rains in Wajir and Mandera counties have caused flash floods, cutting off roads and marooning villages.
Four children drowned on Tuesday in Eldas, Wajir County, while attempting to swim in a swollen stream. The victims were in Standard Five, Grade One, and Grade Three.
Wajir County Director of Education Hussein Osman confirmed the deaths and stated that some examination centres have been moved due to the heavy rains.
"We are having challenges in accessing examination centres and in some parts some schools are marooned. We have relocated four centres in Buna to safer schools on higher grounds and we are also closely watching four others in Bute area," Mr Osman said by phone.
Heavy flooding has also cut off major routes in Mandera County, leaving stranded villagers with no help after months of biting drought. In Kotulo, drivers are stuck on the main road and are on the verge of starvation following the depletion of their food and water stocks.
Private businesses are also counting heavy losses following the floods that cut off roads rendering logistics a nightmare. The county is a key source of livestock for meat products consumed in Nairobi, Meru, Nakuru, and Mombasa as well as other neighbouring towns.
Despite the devastating situation, floods are a blessing to some as several youths are cashing in by helping travellers cross the flooded sections of the roads.
"We are charging between Sh100 and Sh500 per a person to carry him or her across the swollen rivers or flooded points," said Alio Said.
