The British High Commission in Nairobi has allocated KES 140 million for flood relief efforts in Kenya in response to the rising death toll, which has reached 220.
Severe flooding, attributed to excessive rainfall from El Niño, has displaced over 200,000 people and caused extensive damage to roads, homes, and other infrastructure.
“This funding will enable the provision of cash assistance to approximately 6,900 households in the most affected counties,” the High Commission announced on Sunday.
Due to the ongoing heavy rains, President William Ruto has ordered an indefinite extension of the school reopening, which was originally scheduled for Monday.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned of continued heavy rains throughout May, particularly affecting Nairobi, the Coastal region, Rift Valley, Central, and parts of Nyanza.
On Sunday, thousands of families were displaced after the Nyando River burst its banks.
The affected families found themselves stranded on the roadside, as markets, schools, and even a police station in Ahero were submerged.
“This means motorists cannot cross the main bridge on the Kisumu-Nairobi Highway, causing a major transport crisis,” said a senior police officer in Ahero.
While there were no immediate reports of casualties, locals and motorists were warned against attempting to cross the flooded bridge.
Through the funding from the British High Commission, UNICEF will deliver vital health, nutrition, and sanitation services, including safe drinking water, temporary sanitation facilities, and hygiene kits. Cholera prevention interventions will also be intensified to safeguard public health.
Shaheen Nilofer, UNICEF Kenya Representative, emphasized the importance of prioritizing children’s welfare during emergencies and thanked the British High Commission for their support.
“Through the support of the British High Commission, we will be able to provide emergency cash transfers and other essential services to the most affected families to help them cope with the effects of the heavy rains and flooding. We are grateful for the strong support of our donors as we work with the government and other partners in the flood response,” said Shaheen Nilofer.
British High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, expressed solidarity with Kenya and highlighted the UK’s commitment to working closely with UNICEF, the Kenyan government, and other partners to address the crisis.
“The situation facing many Kenyans as a result of recent extreme weather and flooding is heartbreaking. This urgent funding from the UK will help alleviate the suffering of those displaced and impacted by the crisis. We stand with Kenya in this emergency and continue to work closely with UNICEF, the Government of Kenya, and other partners to do what we can to support the response,” he said.
