TANA FLOODS CRISIS: TANA FLOOD VICTIMS PLEAD FOR URGENT GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

GOVERNMENT URGES THE AFFECTED FAMILIES by TANA FLOODS TO REGISTER WITH SHA

Thousands of residents displaced by tana floods in Tana River County are calling on the government to fast-track their resettlement as they are still struggling to recover after the devastating floods of 2023. Many were forced to abandon their homes and move to higher grounds, like the bandi internally displaced persons camp, where life remains harsh and uncertain.

Speaking in tana river county today, gobole ali a youth leader at the camp says only a few households received partial assistance from the government.100 households received 20 iron sheets each which is not enough as most of the residents still live in plastic tents with no privacy.

“Our presence here is not just about distributing aid, it’s a message that the Government stands with its people, in hardship and in hope. We will continue to walk this journey together, ensuring that no one is left behind,” he said.

Residents say they have adapted to the new settlement on higher ground since the formation of bandi camp in 2023 after the floods swept away entire villages but they lack resources to build permanent homes. Mama halako, a 68 year old, therefore urged the government to intervene, saying they lost everything.

“In the last floods, we lost six children and one elderly man to cholera. People used bushes as toilets, and contaminated water would enter our drinking sources,” said Mama Halako

Despite efforts by the national and county governments, resource constraints continue to slow progress. During his tour to the area, the principal secretary for special programs Ismail madey, acknowledged the situation and said more help is coming

Meanwhile his arid and semi-arid lands counterpart kello harsama , encouraged affected families to register with the social health authority for access to free medical care.

“This mission is part of the government’s ongoing commitment to support communities affected by recent floods and to ensure that no vulnerable household is left behind,” ps maalim said during the visit.

As another potential wave of floods threatens the region, Tana River residents are appealing for urgent and inclusive action to ensure no family is left behind.