This archive report was first published on 22 April 2020.
On April 22, 2020, a devastating flood hit Nyando Sub County in Kisumu County after River Nyando burst its banks following heavy rains.
According to eyewitnesses, the floodwaters struck early in the morning, submerging several homesteads and forcing residents to move to roadsides with their belongings.
Businesses at Ahero shopping centre along the Kisumu-Kericho highway were severely affected, and schools that normally serve as shelters for flood victims were also flooded, leaving them unable to accommodate the displaced residents.
The victims are now camping in the open and have appealed to both the County and National Government for assistance.
Rice farmers in the area are counting their losses after their newly planted rice fields were submerged and washed away, and there is a fear of the spread of waterborne diseases unless urgent measures are taken.
By George Kaiga
