Residents of Simbi Kogembo Sub-location in Karachuonyo Constituency, Homa Bay County, are raising urgent concerns about the state of drainage systems in their area as the anticipated El Niño rains draw near. The residents, hailing from the villages of Kamuga, Nyaola, Kolonde, and Kosano, have called on the county government to expedite the clearing and maintenance of these systems to prevent the perennial flooding that has historically displaced hundreds of families and caused extensive property damage.
The onset of the rainy season is a period of heightened anxiety for these communities, who have witnessed the devastating impact of blocked and poorly maintained drainage systems in the past. Flooding not only disrupts daily life but also poses significant risks to health and safety, with stagnant water serving as a breeding ground for diseases such as malaria and cholera. The residents warn that without prompt action, the impending rains could exacerbate these issues, leading to even greater losses for households already vulnerable to the effects of climate change.
In response to these concerns, the county government, through its Department of Disaster Management, has initiated preparations for the El Niño rains. These preparations include clearing and de-silting drainage systems and maintaining dykes along major rivers in flood-prone areas. The aim is to improve water flow, contain overflowing rivers, and protect communities living in low-lying areas from the threat of flooding.
However, residents, led by community spokesperson Rose Seda, have emphasized the need for these efforts to be accelerated. Speaking at Nyaola village, Seda stressed that any delays in completing the drainage works could leave communities exposed to the full brunt of the heavy rains. "We urge the county government to act swiftly," she said, highlighting the community's fears of being caught unprepared when the rains begin.
The call for urgent intervention is not just about immediate relief but also about safeguarding lives and property in the long term. As the El Niño rains approach, the focus remains on ensuring that drainage channels are clear and dykes are reinforced to mitigate the risk of flooding. The residents of Homa Bay County are hopeful that their appeals will be met with decisive action, ensuring that they are better protected against the challenges posed by the upcoming rainy season.
