President William Ruto has ordered the immediate deployment of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to support rescue and relief operations as floods continue to affect parts of the country, leaving families displaced and causing widespread destruction.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Head of State said the government had activated a multi-agency emergency response to deal with the situation as heavy flooding in Nairobi and other regions continues to disrupt lives.
The president said the disaster has already brought serious hardship to many communities, including loss of lives, displacement of households, and damage to homes, businesses, and livelihoods.
To strengthen the response, Ruto directed the formation of a coordinated emergency operation involving several state agencies. The response team will be led by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration and will work closely with the military and other disaster response units.
According to the president, the deployment aims to speed up rescue efforts and provide urgent assistance to residents trapped or affected by the floods.
"I have directed the immediate deployment of a multi-agency emergency response team led by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, working closely with the Kenya Defence Forces and other emergency response agencies. This team will coordinate rescue efforts, support affected communities, and ensure that those in danger are moved to safer locations," the Head of State said.
The government response will focus on coordinating rescue operations, helping communities affected by rising water levels, and relocating residents who remain in high-risk areas to safer ground.
Authorities say the operation will also ensure that displaced families receive emergency support as the government works to contain the crisis and prevent further loss.
Amid growing criticism over the condition of drainage systems in Nairobi during the administration of Governor Johnson Sakaja, especially after the national government recently entered into a cooperation agreement with the county, the President said both levels of government are already working together on the ground to tackle the flooding crisis and safeguard residents.
He said the national and county governments are also planning long-term flood control measures for Nairobi and other urban centres that continue to face drainage challenges.
The County Government has confirmed that 4,000 Green Army personnel have been deployed alongside other emergency teams to clear blocked drainage systems and help ease the flooding.
"Emergency humanitarian support will also be extended to families facing displacement and hardship during this period," Ruto added.
"The national government is working closely with the Nairobi City County Government and other county administrations to ensure a coordinated response that prioritises the safety and well-being of our citizens."
At the same time, Ruto said the ongoing Nairobi River Regeneration Programme remains a key intervention aimed at restoring river ecosystems, improving drainage infrastructure, and reducing the risk of future flooding.