Residents of Nakuru West were alarmed on Wednesday by new sinkholes and fissures, a recurring issue that has sparked anxiety and confusion in the community. Videos online showed locals gathering around a large sinkhole, which was slowly filling with rainwater.
This recent event is part of a larger trend. In May of this year, heavy rains displaced over 500 families in Kaptembwa, where sinkholes and fissures had destroyed homes and damaged large areas of land. Some houses were severely cracked or submerged, with one landlord losing 16 houses overnight.
Nakuru, situated within the Great Rift Valley—which stretches from the Horn of Africa to Mozambique—rests on unstable soils, according to geologists. Dr. Clement Lenashuru, a Natural Research Scientist, explained to Citizen TV that the region’s instability is due to volcanic activity during the Rift Valley’s formation, which left a layer of pumice or volcanic ash over numerous fault lines.
“Underneath, the area is composed of loose ash sand that can be easily washed away by water,” Dr. Clement said. He further explained that the varying sizes of the Rift Valley’s fault lines contribute to the frequent appearance of sinkholes, especially during heavy rains or poor drainage.
Soil Scientist Grace Ruiru attributes the fissures and sinkholes to active tectonic plate movements in the region. She added that Nakuru’s sandy soil, which does not retain water well, exacerbates these geological issues.
Geologists have repeatedly warned that the rapid construction of skyscrapers in Nakuru could pose a significant risk, as the unstable ground may not support the weight during a natural disaster like a landslide or earthquake.
“Such buildings are at risk of sinking, cracking, or sustaining severe damage,” Dr. Clement warned.
In 2020, a study was conducted to identify Nakuru’s major fault lines and determine which areas are most vulnerable.
Although detailed findings are limited, geologists have identified Shabab, London, Kaptembwa, Kiamunyi, and Ngata in Nakuru West, as well as Gilgil and Suswa, as potential weak points.
