This archive report was first published on 5 December 2019.
Published on December 5, 2019, a devastating flood in Kakamega County claimed the life of a two-year-old girl, Triza Nechesa Mukusa. The incident occurred when Triza was crossing a stream near her parents' home at Muchanja village in Malava sub-county.
According to her father, Alex Mukusa, Triza tripped and fell into the water while crossing the stream with other children. Villagers managed to retrieve her body downstream moments later.
The stream, which has no bridge, poses a significant risk to children who have to wade through the water to get to the other side. In a bid to prevent similar accidents, Hassan Musumi, the area assistant chief, has urged parents to keep a close eye on their children.
Elsewhere in Malava, heavy rains destroyed five classrooms and an office at Shirugu Primary school. Deputy head teacher Enock Webo expressed concerns that the over 700 learners may not have a place to learn from when they report back in January.
“We call on well-wishers to help us put up new classrooms before schools re-open because the situation is unbearable,” Enock Webo said.
Residents living on the outskirts of Kakamega town are also living in fear after heavy rains started washing away graves in which they have buried their loved ones. Amakanji Luchiha, a resident, expressed concerns that the graves may not be spared.
