Prof. Kithure Kindiki, Interior Cabinet Secretary, has ordered that people residing in flood-prone areas quit their homes by 6.30 p.m. on Friday, May 3, 2024, or face forced evacuation.
The evacuation orders are aimed at those living in landslide and mudslide-prone areas, as well as those who live near 178 public and private dams that are nearing or have already reached capacity.
The evacuation orders came as towns at risk of flooding and landslides have urged the government to provide alternate relocation sites.
“All persons residing contiguous to the dams and water reservoirs are ordered to vacate the said areas immediately and in any case, within 24 Hours effective today, failing which they will be subjected to mandatory evacuation for their safety,” said Kindiki in a statement on Thursday.
Temporary shelter, food, and basic supplies would be provided, the government has informed those impacted, to help them get through this difficult time.
To protect homeowners and response teams, the evacuation procedure will also take place between the hours of 6:00 AM and 6:30 PM.
To expedite the evacuation process in a timely and compassionate manner, National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs) have been instructed to work closely with county governments, humanitarian groups, and other stakeholders.
Moreover, the order also applies to anyone who lives inside the 30-meter riparian buffer around all rivers and other bodies of water in the country. For their protection, they are also directed to leave right once, and any illegal settlements in these riparian regions are to be cleared out following this directive.
The administration is urging locals in the impacted areas to cooperate fully with the authorities and follow the instructions given for their safety as the evacuation process progresses.
