Resilience and Recovery: Life After the 2024 Floods in Kenya
In 2024, Kenya experienced devastating floods that severely impacted the Mathare settlement in Nairobi, displacing over 7,000 residents and leading to hundreds of fatalities nationwide. Informal settlements suffered the most, with many residents forced to abandon their homes. Women and children were particularly affected, revealing significant vulnerabilities in disaster responses. Despite challenges, survivors have shown resilience, with efforts underway for recovery and long-term support to withstand future climate events.
The 2024 rainy season in Kenya brought severe floods, particularly affecting the Mathare settlement in Nairobi, which sustained significant destruction along the Mathare River. On April 24, floods inundated the slum, leading to more than 7,000 people being displaced, while reports reveal a total of 294 fatalities across the country. Humanitarian organizations, such as Save the Children, have highlighted the plight of affected families who were grappling with the aftermath as late as October.
Doreen Achieng, a resident of Mathare, recalls the harrowing experience of suddenly losing her home as floodwaters surged overnight. Fortunately, she and her children were rescued, but Achieng lost not only her home but also her means of livelihood as a food vendor. The destruction caused by the floods left her struggling to afford rent and school fees for her children.
The floods wreaked havoc beyond Mathare, affecting approximately 55,000 households and decimating livestock and cropland. Informal settlements continued to bear the brunt of the damage, as they are often located in flood-prone areas due to affordability issues. Support provided by temporary shelters in community facilities highlighted the struggle for basic necessities, as Edward Okoth noted the fierce competition for food aid while in a camp.
Worsened by the El Niño phenomenon, the floods exemplified the vulnerability of impoverished communities in developing countries. Adequate housing was often outside the financial reach of residents, further exposing them to the increasing risks associated with climate change. Reports indicate that Kenya’s informal settlements are increasingly susceptible to both floods and heat waves.
The impact of climate-induced migration is also evident, as Sharen Dimanche from the International Organization for Migration acknowledged a rising number of displaced individuals across the East and Horn of Africa. In less than six months, the number of displaced persons in the region escalated to more than 20 million, emphasizing the growing challenge posed by climate change and its effect on vulnerable populations.
Women and children faced unique challenges during and after the floods, according to a UNICEF report highlighting increased risks for breastfeeding mothers and infants. The prevalence of neglect and decreased school attendance among affected children exacerbated their pre-existing vulnerabilities. Organizations such as Save the Children provided crucial support for mental health and access to sanitary products for the displaced.
As efforts for recovery moved forward, many residents had to contend with the demolition of homes near the riverbanks, further compounding their hardship. The government’s forced evictions disrupted hopes of rebuilding, as many were left without alternatives. There are growing sanitation issues due to demolished infrastructure, forcing residents to revert to unsanitary practices such as using plastic bags for waste disposal.
Despite these challenges, survivors have demonstrated resilience, turning flood-affected land into productive vegetable gardens. The government’s ClimateWorX initiative has provided daily financial assistance while also employing individuals in sustainability efforts for urban river rehabilitation. The initiative’s planned expansion from 20,000 workers to 50,000 signifies ongoing support for vulnerable communities.
Residents remain hopeful for long-term recovery strategies that include improved infrastructure and adequate flood defenses, with an emphasis on community involvement in urban planning. Concerns over government preparedness for future disasters persist, pointing to the need for substantial investments in disaster readiness. Though the impacts of the floods will linger, many believe with continued assistance and better planning, they can build back stronger and more resilient to future adversities.
The 2024 floods in Nairobi’s Mathare settlement had devastating consequences, displacing thousands and creating both immediate and long-term challenges for residents. The crisis highlighted the vulnerabilities of informal settlements and the disproportionate effect on women and children. Moving forward, community resilience and sustainable development must be prioritized, coupled with substantial support from the government to mitigate future risks and ensure the safety of these populations.
Original Source: dialogue.earth
