Wajir County officials have convened an emergency Steering Group to coordinate response efforts following severe flooding in several sub-counties earlier this year. The meeting, held in Wajir town, brought together county government officials, representatives from the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA), Kenya Red Cross, and other key stakeholders tasked with addressing the humanitarian impact of the floods. County leaders stressed the urgency of providing relief to affected residents, with emphasis on safeguarding lives, livestock, and critical infrastructure.
The 2023 floods, driven by unusually heavy rains linked to tropical cyclone Freddy and the Madden-Julian Oscillation, caused significant damage across Wajir North, Wajir West, Eldas, Tarbaj, and Wajir South. The deluge led to the displacement of thousands, disruption of health and education services, and destruction of sanitation and water facilities. Tragically, at least four residents lost their lives due to drowning in stagnant floodwaters. Roads connecting Wajir to neighboring counties were submerged, hindering transportation of essential goods and emergency supplies. During the Steering Group meeting, members emphasized the need for immediate logistics support, including airlifting food, medicine, and clean water to isolated communities.
Reactions from local leaders and humanitarian agencies highlighted both concern and commitment to mitigating future risks. Wajir County officials called for urgent release of emergency funds and resources to prevent further loss of life and property. The group also underscored the importance of enhancing flood preparedness, including early warning systems, infrastructure reinforcement, and community sensitization. Looking forward, county authorities aim to integrate climate resilience into development planning, ensuring that Wajir is better equipped to handle extreme weather events while protecting vulnerable populations.