Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof. Kithure Kindiki has issued a directive for residents in flood-prone regions to evacuate their homes by 6:30 pm on Friday, May 3, 2024, or face compulsory removal.
The evacuation mandate specifically targets individuals residing in areas susceptible to landslides and mudslides, as well as those situated in close proximity to 178 public and private dams that are either nearing capacity or have already reached it.
These orders have been issued in response to concerns raised by communities at risk of flood and landslide impact, urging the government to provide alternative relocation sites.
“All persons residing contiguous to the dams and water reservoirs are ordered to vacate the said areas immediately and in any case, within 24 Hours effective today, failing which they will be subjected to mandatory evacuation for their safety,” said Kindiki in a statement on Thursday.
Affected individuals have been assured by the government that temporary shelter, along with food and essential supplies, will be provided to assist them during this challenging period.
Moreover, the evacuation procedure will be carried out between 6:00 AM and 6:30 PM to ensure the safety of both residents and response teams.
National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs) have received instructions to collaborate closely with county governments, humanitarian organizations, and other stakeholders to facilitate the evacuation process promptly and compassionately.
Furthermore, the directive applies to individuals living within the 30-meter riparian corridor of rivers and other watercourses across the nation. They are required to vacate immediately for their safety, with illegal settlements in these riparian areas set to be dismantled accordingly.
