This archive report was first published on 15 December 2019.
Dozens of households in Kisiiki village, Thika East County, have been displaced by recent floods along the Athi River.
According to reports, the allocation of plots to the residents in 2017 was disrupted after some individuals claimed ownership of the land, forcing them to continue living in the area despite experiencing floods each rainy season.
However, the residents have now called on the government to fast-track their relocation to the allocated plots, citing the need for a permanent solution to their displacement.
Thika East Deputy County Commissioner Thomas Sankei has refuted claims by the residents, stating that they refused to relocate despite the government setting aside land for the exercise.
Sankei further claimed that the residents rely on the river water for irrigation and fishing, thus relocation would affect their livelihoods.
Thika West MP Patrick Wainaina has promised to follow up the matter to ensure that all residents get plots.
