The government has activated emergency preparedness measures in anticipation of heavy rainfall and potential flooding, as forecasted by the Kenya Meteorological Department.
Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programmes Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku assured the public that the government is fully mobilized to respond swiftly to any emergencies arising from the anticipated downpours.
Speaking during a church service at St Andrew’s AIPCA Church Mailune in Igembe North, Meru County, Ruku said the Ministry is coordinating closely with all disaster response agencies, including the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA), the Kenya Red Cross, the National Disaster Management Unit (NDMU), and National Youth Service, under the State Department for Special Programmes.
“This is a multisectoral effort. Every department under special programmes has been directed to act proactively. We are focused on mitigating the effects of the floods before they occur, not just reacting after the damage is done,” he stated.
Ruku urged residents living in flood-prone regions, including areas along the Tana River, Nzoia River, Budalangi flood plains, and Nyando River, to move to higher ground and remain alert to official safety advisories.
He emphasized that response teams are on standby nationwide to ensure timely intervention in case of flooding or related emergencies.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring no Kenyan is left vulnerable, adding that the State Department for Special Programmes is actively developing strategies to cushion communities from the anticipated impacts of the heavy rains.
In addition to disaster preparedness, Ruku addressed recent unrest in Siakago Town, where tension between Muguka traders from the Ameru and Ambeere communities led to looting and vandalism. He called for calm and unity, urging local leaders to foster peaceful coexistence.
“The problem in Siakago is not business rivalry but a failure by a few people who did not play their part in service delivery. Mt Kenya East is one family, Meru, Embu, and Tharaka-Nithi must work together for shared prosperity,” he said.
Ruku also highlighted various ongoing government initiatives, including plans to decentralize Huduma Centre services to the village level to improve service delivery and reduce travel costs for rural residents.
On food security, the CS defended the government’s fertilizer subsidy reforms, noting that they are intended to support genuine farmers and eliminate corruption by cartels.
He added that the government continues to invest heavily in education and healthcare, citing reforms under the Social Health Authority as a key step in sealing loopholes that had previously led to misuse of NHIF funds by private hospitals.
Addressing the youth, Ruku encouraged them to take advantage of training and empowerment opportunities through the National Youth Service (NYS).
“NYS is not just about uniforms. It is about equipping our young people with skills, discipline, and a foundation for future employment and service to the nation,” he said.
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