By Treezer Michelle Atieno
The recent nationwide floods have wreaked havoc on communities but also brought deep-
seated issues of justice, accountability, and governance. As the flood waters recede, the
affected populations face many challenges driven by negligence, corruption, and inadequate
relief efforts.
Tragedy and Accountability
The floods, exacerbated by heavy rainfall and poor urban planning, have claimed numerous
lives and displaced thousands, exposing the vulnerability of marginalized communities. The
Kenyan Human Rights Commission (KHRC) has taken a step by suing government officials,
accusing them of gross negligence that resulted in the fatal flooding. According to the KHRC,
the government's failure to implement adequate flood prevention measures, such as
maintaining drainage systems and enforcing building regulations, directly contributed to the
disaster's severity.
In their lawsuit, the KHRC highlights specific instances of negligence, such as the failure to
complete planned flood control projects and the misallocation of funds for disaster
preparedness. They argue that the government's inaction and mismanagement not only failed
to protect citizens but also violated their constitutional rights to safety and security. The
KHRC is pushing for comprehensive investigations and stringent actions against those
responsible.
Corruption and Eviction Controversies
In the aftermath of the floods, the government's eviction drives in areas like Mathare and
Mukuru have been intensely scrutinized. These initiatives, intended to mitigate flood risks by
clearing illegal settlements, have been marred by allegations of corruption and misconduct.
The residents of these estates have accused officials of using the eviction process as an
opportunity for graft, demanding bribes from those seeking to avoid displacement.
The residents argue that they are being conducted without proper planning or provision of
alternative housing. Many families are left homeless and exposed to further hardships, with
some accusing officials of prioritizing personal gain over public safety. This controversy
underscores the broader issues of land rights and urban planning in Kenya, where informal
settlements often bear the brunt of natural disasters and subsequent government actions.
Inadequate Relief Efforts
Critics, including the Azimio la Umoja coalition, have labelled the relief efforts as
inadequate, arguing that the financial aid does not address the extensive losses suffered by the
victims.
They also point out that the aid package fails to consider the long-term needs of displaced
families, many of whom have lost their homes, livelihoods, and personal belongings. The
relief efforts have been described as reactive rather than proactive, with many calling for a
more comprehensive approach to disaster management that includes pre-disaster
preparedness and post-disaster recovery.
In addition to financial aid, the government has been urged to improve its disaster response
infrastructure, including better coordination between agencies, quicker deployment of
resources, and more effective communication with affected communities. Advocacy groups
have also called for increased investment in community-based disaster risk reduction
programs, which empower local populations to take proactive measures in mitigating the
impact of natural disasters.
Calls for Systemic Change
The floods have amplified calls for systemic change in how Kenya addresses natural disasters
and urban development. There is a pressing need for comprehensive flood management
policies that include proper urban planning, investment in infrastructure, and robust disaster
response mechanisms. Additionally, tackling corruption within government operations is
crucial to ensure that aid reaches those in need and that preventive measures are
implemented.
Experts advocate for a multi-faceted approach to flood management that includes upgrading
and maintaining drainage systems, implementing early warning systems, and enforcing
stringent building codes to prevent construction in flood-prone areas. There is also a call for
greater involvement of local communities in disaster planning and response, ensuring that
their needs and insights are incorporated into national strategies.
Environmental conservation is another critical aspect of flood management. Deforestation
and poor land use practices have been identified as significant contributors to the severity of
flooding in Kenya. Efforts to restore and protect natural ecosystems, such as wetlands and
forests, can play a vital role in reducing flood risks and enhancing community resilience.
