By Alex Maina
In Eldoret, the rains have once again reminded residents of a problem that refuses to go away: poor drainage. When dark clouds gather over the fast-growing town in Uasin Gishu County, many people no longer think about the relief the rain brings. Instead, they think about flooded roads, blocked paths, and water entering buildings.
Along Nandi Road, which leads towards River Sosiani, the issue becomes evident during heavy downpours. Rainwater rushes down the road with great force, spreading across the tarmac and nearby pavements. The county government has made efforts to enlarge some drainage channels along the road, but when the rain is intense, the water still overflows and spreads wherever it can.
For residents and business owners, the rain has become something to prepare for.
Samuel Kiprono runs a small repair shop near the road. On a normal day he fixes phones and electronics for customers who pass by. But when the sky turns grey, he begins watching the road instead of his tools.
He says that when the rain starts, water quickly gathers and flows like a small river. Customers struggle to reach his shop, and sometimes they decide not to come at all. The rushing water often carries mud and debris, making the area messy and difficult to walk through. For him, every rainy afternoon means lost time and fewer customers.
Not far away on Ronald Ngala Street, the situation is not far from the same. Some buildings there have underground shops. When the water flows down the street, it does not stop at the entrance. It continues into the buildings.
Jane Chebet works in one of those basement shops. She says that whenever dark clouds appear, traders begin preparing immediately. They lift clothes and goods from the lower shelves and watch the street carefully. When the rain becomes heavy, water flows from the road and slowly enters the underground space.
For her and many others, the rain brings fear of damaged stock and lost income. Sometimes they close their shops early because customers cannot reach them through the flooded street.
Many residents say the solution is simple but urgent. As Eldoret continues to grow into one of Kenya’s major towns, proper stormwater drainage must grow with it. Without strong drainage systems that guide rainwater safely into River Sosiani, every rainy season will continue to disrupt lives and businesses.
The County Government of Uasin Gishu should work on a way to make sure its people do not suffer every time it rains big.
