The families displaced by the tragic debris flow in Maai Mahiu in April 2024 are beginning to rebuild their lives as the government steps in with land allocations, financial support, and community development plans.
The disaster, which killed 48 people and left 84 others missing, was caused by heavy rainfall in the valley above Kijabe, an area marked by steep, eroded terrain and a history of shallow landslides.
On Tuesday, 105 families directly impacted by the floods were officially resettled and issued title deeds, with each household receiving 2 acres of land.
Each family was also given Sh20,000 to support relocation and ensure access to essential services like electricity, water, schools, markets, and health facilities.
The government has also set aside public utilities land for the construction of a hospital, schools, a market, places of worship, recreation facilities, and an ICT centre, creating a foundation for long-term community growth.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki stated that the 56 families who were renting homes affected by the floods will also receive land.
Deputy President Kindiki presides over the issuance of title deeds to 105 victims of Maai Mahiu floods victims at Maai Mahiu Stadium in Nakuru County on February 17, 2026 PHOTO/ DPCS
“I have directed Cabinet Secretary for Lands Alice Wahome to immediately identify suitable parcels of land, acquire them through the laid-out procedures, expedite the subdivision, and allocate the plots to the 56 families within the shortest time possible,” Kindiki said.
These tenant families will also get Sh20,000 each, bringing the total number of families benefiting from government support to 161.
Kindiki said the initiatives go beyond recovery, emphasizing that they are designed to stimulate development in the region.
He noted the ongoing expansion of the Rironi-Mau Summit road, which will improve safety and encourage economic activities.
The Deputy President added that construction of the Maai Mahiu Modern Market will begin within a week.
“Construction of markets, affordable houses is one way of creating jobs for our youth. We don’t want our youth to be misused by politicians to fulfil their sinister motives,” he said.
Highlighting government programmes for youth employment, Kindiki pointed to NYOTA, Kazi Mtandaoni, and Kazi Majuu as key tools to engage young people in productive work.
“Some politicians see young people as goons, hecklers, bloggers and mere voters. This government sees young people as critical in the growth of our society; that is why we are getting them jobs through various programmes,” he added.
To address pressing community needs, Kindiki assured residents that a transformer will be installed to enhance electricity supply.
The government will also support sand harvesting by acquiring 100 acres in Kedong.
Taking aim at opposition leaders, he contrasted action with empty promises.
“Our opponents are used to cheap talk and exploiting the youth for their own misguided political agenda. Talk is cheap, action is harder,” he said.
He concluded by reiterating the government’s commitment to social welfare.
“I have no doubt that this government cares about the youth, women and men and everyone in society and is keen to improve their lives,” Kindiki said.
