Families Displaced as Rising Lake Naivasha Waters Trigger Humanitarian Crisis

The number of families displaced by the swelling waters of Lake Naivasha has surged to more than 4,000, with officials warning that the figure could rise further as heavy rains persist

According to Joyce Cece, a Disaster Management Officer in Naivasha, the situation has deteriorated rapidly in recent weeks, forcing hundreds of households to abandon their homes. Local leaders are now urging the government to declare the flooding a national disaster, citing worsening humanitarian conditions

The Nakuru County Government has begun providing transport to vulnerable families to help them relocate to safer estates. However, residents say the assistance has come too late as the rising waters have already submerged homes, schools, churches, latrines, and even a police post

Former Head of the Government Delivery Service, Peter Mbae, described the situation as a full-blown humanitarian crisis, criticizing both national and county governments for inaction

“We are giving the national and county governments 48 hours to intervene; otherwise, we shall take to the streets,” he warned

Mbae also recalled that a parliamentary committee had previously recommended compensation for legal landowners in the affected estates

Local leader Eunice Mureithi noted that many residents have valid title deeds despite claims that the land lies within riparian zones. She raised concerns over a potential disease outbreak as floodwaters have contaminated latrines and other sanitation facilities

“Children are coming home from closed schools only to find their homes flooded. They need urgent help to relocate,” she said

Disaster Management Chief Officer Joyce Ncece confirmed that a multi-sectoral team has been formed to coordinate the evacuation and support of displaced residents

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“Over 4,000 families have been affected so far, and the situation is worsening daily,” she added

Victims like Mathew Halili lamented neglect by authorities, saying many families are sleeping in flooded homes

“We’ve been forgotten by the government. Hippos are now straying into our homes,” he said

Another resident, Beth Wamaitha, a flower farm worker, said relocation is beyond reach for many due to inflated rent prices in nearby estates.

“We’re sleeping in flooded houses because we can’t afford to move. Our leaders have completely forgotten us,” she said

Local leaders continue to call for urgent intervention to prevent further displacement and contain health and safety risks in the flood-hit region

Writer : Mweru Mbugua