Based on reports by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), El Niño rains are anticipated for the last quarter of 2023 as has been cited in some parts of Kisumu County. The predictions made during the Greater Horn of Africa Climate Outlook Forum (GHACOF) have raised concerns about possible flooding and locust disasters.

For the past few weeks, there have been nationwide calls for early preparedness in response to the floods and oncoming El Niño rains. This is a necessary step, as county governments, the Red Cross, World Vision, UNICEF, and Plan International are on high alert and currently assessing their capabilities to respond in case of an emergency.

Some parts of the country, such as Kisumu County in the western region, have already experienced flooding. Despite the early warning, the lives of residents are at risk of disruption, as the rains are just beginning and there are not enough evacuation centers.

According to Kisumu West Sub Country Administrator Maurice Oricho, various evacuation centers were identified earlier, but some, such as schools, cannot be used because students have resumed schooling.

Despite the looming challenges, Mr. Oricho assured that the Kisumu County Government has engaged with various stakeholders from both government and humanitarian aid organizations and has taken adequate steps to ensure that the floods do not disrupt the lives of residents. Some of the measures taken include identifying other evacuation centers, such as churches.

“We have identified and mapped out the places and areas that are prone to flooding and where the floods have been destroying property,” said Oricho. “We appeal to our people to be on alert and heed the calls to move to safer and higher grounds at the evacuation centers to prevent loss and disaster.”

He also revealed that the county disaster management committee has been restructured to ensure that it is capable of adequately responding to disaster situations and protecting people from the havoc of floods.