Government activates emergency response as heavy rains pound

The government has activated emergency preparedness measures in anticipation of heavy rainfall and possible flooding, as forecasted by the Kenya Meteorological Department.

Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programmes Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku assured Kenyans that response systems are fully mobilised to deal with any emergencies arising from the expected downpours.

Speaking during a church service at St. Andrew’s AIPCA Church Mailune in Igembe North, Meru County, Ruku said his ministry is working closely with key agencies including the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA), the Kenya Red Cross, the National Disaster Management Unit (NDMU), and the National Youth Service (NYS) to coordinate preparedness efforts.

“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,” Ruku stated.

He urged residents in flood-prone areas—particularly 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 emphasised that response teams are on standby nationwide for timely intervention.

The CS reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring no Kenyan is left vulnerable, noting that the State Department for Special Programmes is developing strategies to cushion communities from the anticipated effects of the rains.

Beyond disaster preparedness, Ruku also 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 urged leaders to foster unity.

“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 further highlighted government initiatives to improve service delivery, including plans to decentralise Huduma Centre services to the village level. He defended ongoing fertiliser subsidy reforms, stressing they are designed to support genuine farmers and curb corruption by middlemen.

On healthcare, he pointed to reforms under the Social Health Authority as key in sealing loopholes that had enabled misuse of NHIF funds by private hospitals.

Addressing the youth, Ruku encouraged them to embrace training and empowerment opportunities offered by the National Youth Service.

“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.