Kenya’s Government Causes Heartache by Destroying Homes in Flood Zones and Providing Mere $75 Aid

The government of Kenya has initiated the destruction of houses built in areas prone to flooding, offering evicted families $75 to relocate after a deadline to evacuate. In Nairobi, a bulldozer demolished homes while security forces with weapons stood guard and fired tear gas at residents. The government urged thousands of people to vacate flood-prone zones, but many are unsure where to go, despite claims that they were informed of options. Human Rights Watch criticized the government’s response as insufficient.

Frustrated residents, like Jekenke Jegeke, are now seeking help from President William Ruto after losing their homes. Ruto visited the Mathare informal settlement, pledging 10,000 Kenyan shillings for those affected by demolitions. Tragically, three people, including two children, lost their lives during the demolitions in Mathare.

Opposition leader Raila Odinga cautioned the government against further demolitions without a proper resettlement plan. The flooding in Kenya has impacted 235,000 individuals, many of whom are now residing in camps. Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki reiterated the evacuation order for 200 families in the Kijabe area, following a devastating flood caused by a blocked railway tunnel last week.

Kenya’s Cabinet reported record water levels at the Masinga and Kiambere dams, prompting warnings for residents living downstream along the Tana River to evacuate. The government’s response to the flooding has raised concerns about the welfare of those affected, with the exact number of demolished homes yet to be determined.