The government of Kenya has initiated a comprehensive multi-agency response plan to address the potential impacts of the anticipated El Niño phenomenon, which is expected to bring heavy rains to the country. This proactive measure targets 18 counties identified as high-risk areas. Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni announced the plan, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and collaboration with various partners to mitigate the adverse effects of the rains.
PS Muthoni highlighted the necessity of a coordinated approach, noting that the scale of the anticipated El Niño rains demands a concerted effort from both the government and its partners. "The Ministry of Health is engaging partners to strengthen preparedness and mitigate the effects of the expected rains," she stated. This collaboration is crucial in ensuring that the response is effective and comprehensive, drawing on lessons learned from past disasters to enhance the ministry's response systems.
The announcement was made during a health partners’ engagement session focused on preparations for the upcoming Kenya Public Health International Conference (KEPHIC 2026), scheduled for October 27 to 29. The conference aims to bring together stakeholders to discuss and strategize on public health issues, including disaster preparedness.
In 2023, El Niño-related impacts affected 43 counties, underscoring the need for a robust response plan. Health partners are being called upon to support various initiatives, such as establishing temporary medical facilities, providing emergency medical services, promoting health and nutrition assessments, ensuring safe water and sanitation, managing logistics, protecting critical infrastructure, and supplying medical commodities to affected areas.
As part of the preventive measures, the Ministry of Health plans to distribute 10 million treated mosquito nets starting in November. This initiative aims to protect more than four million people from diseases commonly associated with heavy rains, such as malaria.
In addition to these efforts, PS Muthoni revealed that the State Department for Public Health has prepared a Cabinet memorandum proposing the designation of one day every month for nationwide community cleaning. This initiative is inspired by Rwanda’s successful community-cleaning programme and aims to encourage Kenyans to maintain clean environments in their estates and surroundings. The proposal is set to be presented to the Cabinet for consideration, reflecting the government's commitment to promoting public health and environmental sustainability.
Through these coordinated efforts, the government aims to safeguard the health and well-being of its citizens during the challenging El Niño season.
