1,500 Muhoroni flood victims moved to safe areas

Residents of Kasese Village in Muhoroni Sub-County cook outside their homes on April 6, 2015 following the floods that hit the area. PHOTO | TONNY OMONDI |

What you need to know:

  • Official blames poor drainage system for problem.
  • County government allocates Sh1.4m for building dykes and buying food.

The 1,500 people who were displaced by floods in Muhoroni on Monday have been moved to higher ground for safety.

This comes as the county government on Tuesday allocated Sh1.4 million towards mitigating the flood menace in the region.

Migosi, Nyakach Manyatta, Nyalenda, Kaloleni, Bandani and Kondele were cited as the most affected areas.

According to Red Cross Nyanza Regional Manager Emmanuel Owako, most of the victims were moved to Kasese and Achuodho rescue centres.

Residents who were not seriously affected by the floods were given tents to use at their homes in case of heavy rains.

“We want to avoid a repeat of what happened in Siaya,” said Mr Owako.

WOULD BE SHARED

Acting City Manager Doris Ombara on Tuesday told the Nation that the Sh1.4 million would be used for building dykes in the most affected areas. It would also be spent on food and shelter for the victims.

Mrs Ombara said the money would be shared among the 14 wards in the county that have been hit hard by the floods. They will receive Sh100,000 each.

“The poor drainage system has led to flooding in most of the areas. We hope the cash allocated to the wards will bring a difference,” she said.

Ms Mollyne Odhiambo, who moved to a rescue centre, said she could not move back to her home as it was muddy.

“My fear is that my children may contract malaria or other diseases,” said Ms Odhiambo.

Mr Samuel Omolo Orawo, who lives in Kasese, Muhoroni, said he had received some tents from the Red Cross.

“I am praying that it does not rain again because we are really suffering,” he said.