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| President William Ruto |
President William Ruto has ordered urgent rescue and relief measures after severe flooding in Nairobi claimed more than 20 lives and forced many families from their homes.
In a statement issued on Saturday, March 7, the president said the floods had brought widespread devastation, affecting households across several parts of the capital and beyond.
“The ongoing flooding in parts of Nairobi and several other areas of our country has caused immense distress to many families, resulting in the tragic loss of lives, displacement of residents, and damage to homes, property, and livelihoods,” Ruto said.
He sent condolences to families who lost loved ones and acknowledged the disruption the disaster has caused to communities.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are also with all those whose lives have been disrupted by this disaster,” he said.
The ongoing flooding in parts of Nairobi and several other areas of our country has caused immense distress to many families, resulting in the tragic loss of lives, displacement of residents, and damage to homes, property, and livelihoods.
— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) March 7, 2026
I extend my deepest condolences to the…
The president confirmed that the government has launched an emergency response to assist those affected and prevent further loss of life.
“The Government stands in solidarity with every citizen affected, and we are acting swiftly to alleviate further suffering and safeguard lives,” he stated.
Ruto directed the deployment of a coordinated emergency response team led by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, working alongside the Kenya Defence Forces and other emergency agencies to strengthen rescue operations.
According to the president, the team will help coordinate evacuations, assist affected communities and relocate residents from dangerous areas to safer locations.
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| File image of a vehicle submerged in floodwaters |
He also ordered the immediate release of food supplies from the country’s strategic reserves to support households displaced by the flooding.
The government will also cover treatment costs for victims receiving care in public hospitals.
“In addition, the Government will meet the hospital bills of those injured or affected by the flooding and currently receiving treatment in public health facilities,” Ruto said, adding that emergency humanitarian support will be extended to families experiencing displacement and hardship.
The national government is also coordinating response efforts with the Nairobi City County Government and other county administrations to strengthen relief operations.
Ruto said the flooding crisis highlights the need for long-term urban planning solutions to address recurring disasters in the capital.
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| President William Ruto |
At the same time, he pointed to the Nairobi River Regeneration Programme as a key initiative aimed at restoring river ecosystems and improving drainage systems to reduce flood risks.
Meanwhile, the Kenya Meteorological Department has warned that moderate to heavy rainfall is expected to continue across Nairobi and neighbouring counties over the next 24 hours.
Forecasts show rainfall totals of between 20 and 60 millimetres across Nairobi, with isolated areas likely to receive up to 100 millimetres. Areas including Kibra, Dagoretti, Embakasi, Makadara, Kamukunji, Roysambu, Westlands, Lang’ata and Mathare could experience intense downpours.
Heavy rainfall is also expected in Kajiado County, Kiambu County and Machakos County, where authorities have warned of possible flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas.
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