By Joel Clinton
Kisumu County leaders and humanitarian partners have taken strong action to respond to the ongoing floods affecting several sub-counties. This has brought renewed hope to affected communities. In a meeting held at the city boardroom, government officials, development partners, and emergency responders discussed urgent steps to protect lives, support displaced families, and prevent further damage.
The meeting was chaired by County Commissioner Benson Leparmorijo and co-chaired by Chief Officer for Special Programs Timothy Nyakwamba Kajwang’. Key participants included deputy county commissioners, sub-county administrators, humanitarian organizations like the Kenya Red Cross Society and Plan International, and representatives from the United Nations Development Programme.
The forum focused on identifying flood hotspots and coordinating immediate relief efforts. Areas such as Muhoroni, Nyakach, Nyando, and parts of central Kisumu around Kisumu Polytechnic have seen rising water levels. These have impacted homes, farms, and infrastructure.
During the meeting, Leparmorijo highlighted the need for collective responsibility in managing disasters.
“Accidents and disasters can be reduced if people follow safety guidelines and authorities work together. We must always protect the sanctity of life,” he said, praising rescue teams and partners for their quick response.
Kajwang’ instructed sub-county teams to provide detailed situation reports to guide assistance.“Our teams must focus on the real impact on the ground casualties, destroyed homes, damaged infrastructure, and losses in crops and livestock so that support goes to those who need it most,” he stated.
Despite the challenges, progress has been made in areas like Kadibo. Dyking projects, drainage canals, and dredging along the lake have significantly reduced vulnerability to flooding.
Displaced families are currently staying in evacuation camps in Nduru, Ogenya, and Ombaka. They are receiving food supplies and essential household items.
According to Maurice Anyango, regional head of the Kenya Red Cross Society, coordination is crucial for ensuring relief reaches vulnerable households.“The Kisumu hub helps us coordinate support so that limited resources are distributed fairly to families in evacuation camps and those staying with relatives,” he explained.
Through partnerships with the United Nations Development Programme, the county is also creating a stronger disaster response policy. This aims to improve early warning systems and strengthen the Emergency Operation Centre.
As rains continue to threaten crops in Nyakach and surrounding areas, leaders remain alert. They are confident that coordinated action will help the county overcome the crisis while protecting communities from further harm.
