This archive report was first published on 8 May 2020.
Heavy downpours have been causing devastating floods in Likuyani Sub-county of Kakamega, prompting calls for the construction of dams to mitigate the effects.
Speaking to flood victims in Likuyani ward on Thursday, Shanice Foundation CEO Bright Lidaga lamented the neglect of dams constructed during the colonial period, which have since become ineffective due to siltation and grabbing.
"It's regrettable that most of these dams have been abandoned and no longer serve their intended purpose," Lidaga said.
He noted that some of the dams have never been de-silted since their construction at independence, while others have been converted into personal property.
"It's high time the national and county governments thought of renovating all existing dams as well as constructing new ones to check on the flow of water and avert floods," Lidaga urged.
During his visit, Lidaga donated foodstuff, water cans, and hand washing soaps to the victims who were displaced from their homes at Lupele village after Kipsangui stream burst its banks.
"I urge you to adhere to other directives by the government while at the camp to ensure you do not get infected with the killer virus," Lidaga advised, as he handed out the donations.
Published on May 8, 2020, by Sammy Mwibanda.
