President William Ruto has assured Kenyans affected by the recent devastating floods that the government will cover hospital bills for those injured and receiving treatment in public health facilities.
He also promised urgent humanitarian assistance for families displaced or facing hardship due to the severe weather.
“The Government will meet the hospital bills of those injured or affected by the flooding and currently receiving treatment in public health facilities,” President Ruto said on Saturday.
“The ongoing flooding in parts of Nairobi and several other areas of our country has caused immense distress to many families, resulting in the tragic loss of lives, displacement of residents, and damage to homes, property, and livelihoods,” he added.
The President expressed his condolences to bereaved families and offered prayers for those whose lives have been disrupted by the disaster.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are also with all those whose lives have been disrupted by this disaster.”
Heavy overnight rains have so far claimed at least 23 lives, according to the National Police Service (NPS). Areas hardest hit include Mukuru, Kibra, Mathare, Huruma, South B and C, Pipeline/Embakasi, Roysambu, Kahawa West, Githurai, and parts of Westlands.
Flooding has also affected major transport routes, including Uhuru Highway, Mombasa Road, the Thika Superhighway, Jogoo Road, Enterprise Road, and Lang’ata Road.
President Ruto assured citizens that the government is moving swiftly to relieve suffering and protect lives.
“The Government stands in solidarity with every citizen affected, and we are acting swiftly to alleviate further suffering and safeguard lives,” he said.
A multi-agency emergency response team has been deployed to assist with rescue and relief operations. Led by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration and working with the Kenya Defence Forces and other agencies, the team is relocating residents to safer areas and providing necessary support.
“I have also ordered that relief food from our national strategic reserves be immediately released and distributed to families affected by the floods,” the President added.
Muchiri Nyaga, Director of Corporate Communication and spokesperson for the NPS, said overnight rescue operations successfully saved 29 people who are now receiving care.
Authorities confirmed that response teams remain fully deployed, handling distress calls and ongoing search missions. “We are monitoring the situation closely and are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Kenyans, residents, and visitors,” Muchiri said.
President Ruto further highlighted the importance of working hand-in-hand with county governments to manage the crisis effectively.
“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,” he said.
The floods, he noted, underscore the urgency of long-term solutions to urban flooding. Ongoing initiatives such as the Nairobi River Regeneration Programme are central to efforts to restore river ecosystems, improve drainage, and mitigate flood risks.
“The ongoing Nairobi River Regeneration Programme remains a critical part of our long-term strategy to restore river ecosystems, improve drainage systems, and reduce the risks associated with flooding within the city. These efforts will be strengthened and accelerated as part of our commitment to protecting lives, property, and the environment,” President Ruto concluded.