Kiambu steps up flood preparations
Kiambu County has intensified preparations for the anticipated El Niño rains by inspecting flood-prone areas and assessing drainage systems in Kihara Ward.
The exercise brought together residents, local leaders and county officials as they identified areas facing increased risks of flooding due to blocked and inadequate drainage infrastructure.
Kihara Ward MCA John Muthondu led residents during the inspection, which was conducted alongside Kiambu County Chief Officer for Environment John Mukabi and other county government officials.
The team assessed sections of the ward where poor drainage has left communities vulnerable to flooding, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. The inspection is expected to help the county identify urgent areas requiring intervention before the rains intensify.
The county government has begun implementing short-term measures aimed at reducing the immediate flood risk. These include clearing blocked drainage channels and removing debris that could prevent the smooth movement of stormwater.
County officials said the immediate interventions are intended to improve drainage and reduce the likelihood of water accumulating in residential areas and other vulnerable locations during heavy rains.
Beyond the emergency measures, the county is also preparing longer-term interventions to address persistent drainage challenges in Kihara Ward. The planned projects will be implemented under the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action Program (FLOCCA), which seeks to strengthen communities’ resilience to the effects of climate change.
The long-term drainage interventions are expected to improve stormwater management while helping protect homes, roads and other infrastructure from the effects of flooding.
Residents have welcomed the inspection, saying poor drainage remains a major concern during rainy seasons. They are expected to work closely with county authorities in identifying vulnerable areas and supporting measures aimed at improving flood preparedness.
The county government has urged residents to remain vigilant as the rains approach and cooperate with authorities during drainage clearance and other preparedness activities.
The inspection comes as counties across the country step up climate resilience measures in response to the increasing threat of extreme weather events.
