Mwana-Mukia residents in Ruiru in fear of looming floods

Manhole on a city street. [iStockphoto]

Residents of Mwana Mukia village in Ruiru, Kiambu county, are gripped by fear of displacement due to the imminent threat of floods associated with the anticipated El Nino rains.

The locals, who have endured rain-related disruptions for the past nine years and live in constant fear of worsening conditions, have accused the government of neglecting to implement proper mitigation measures.

Concerned about their safety in light of the Kenya Meteorological Department's warning of heavy rainfall expected from next month to December, the residents expressed their disappointment that relevant authorities have not applied lessons from past experiences.

Under the leadership of John Macharia Maina, a Nyumba Kumi official, the residents regret that despite their persistent efforts to address their ongoing predicament, no measures have been taken to ensure the village's safety and habitability.

"During rainy seasons, many of us relocate to safer areas. This situation began when the Thika Superhighway was under construction. The contractor diverted water from its natural course and directed it toward our settlement," said Macharia.

Jane Wanjiku, who settled there in 1977, narrated their persistent but unsuccessful efforts to block rainwater. She recounted how flash floods result in waterborne diseases like diarrhoea, cholera, and typhoid.

David Njuguna, another resident, pointed out that their vulnerability is exacerbated by the area's topography, compounded by a deficient drainage system.

During his visit to the area, Ruiru MP Simon King'ara acknowledged that the situation is dire and necessitates immediate interventions.

A stormwater drainage by the Nairobi Metropolitan Services Improvement Project cannot hold the huge volume of water from Githurai 44 and 45.