Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua expressed concern over the severe challenges caused by floods, stating that the government is overwhelmed and unable to rest.
He disclosed that they have been inundated with calls from across the country, with people seeking assistance. Gachagua made these remarks on Monday while chairing the National Disaster Response Steering Committee, which convened for a meeting at the DP’s official residence in Karen.
“The challenge we are facing today is heavy, we are not able to sleep. Calls are coming from across the country, everybody is asking for food and non-food items. People asking for military choppers to assist in dropping food. People asking for support,” Gachagua said.
The Deputy President emphasized the gravity of the situation, highlighting uncertainties, particularly regarding the education of Kenyan children. Despite the challenges, Gachagua expressed gratitude to Kenyans for their understanding and cooperation, acknowledging the ongoing efforts of the government.
“Parents are very unsure of what will happen to their children, the children are at home and we have no date of when the schools will reopen,” Gachagua said.
“It’s a difficult time and I want to thank the people of Kenya for their cooperation and support,” he noted.
The National Disaster Response Steering Committee convened at the Deputy President’s official residence on Monday. The meeting saw representation from Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, relevant government agencies, County Governments, the private sector, development partners, and Diplomatic Missions.
Additionally, the government established a multi-agency emergency response center at Nyayo House to coordinate flood response efforts nationwide. Led by Deputy President Gachagua, the team aims to facilitate the relocation of displaced households and, in severe cases, provide shelter through the National Youth Service for the most vulnerable individuals.
“The government, under the leadership of President William Ruto, will do whatever it takes and will apply all the required resources in terms of money and personnel to make sure that lives are not lost and the people of Kenya are protected from this disaster,” the DP said.
