Leaving flood victims to their own devices wrong

 

Some of the families that have been displaced by floods camp at Huruma Sports Complex in Nairobi which is an evacuation camp for those affected by the ongoing rainfall. [Collins Oduor, Standard]

Unprecedented floods ravaging most parts of the country have left many Kenyans homeless, penniless and hopeless. The situation in Nairobi is so bad, that most families that mainly live in informal settlements have been moved from their homes to makeshift camps at Huruma grounds in Mathare.

Unfortunately, the victims now have new challenges; poor hygiene conditions and overcrowding in the tiny spaces within the camp. Here, too, there is neither dignity nor privacy. The lack of adequate toilets points to the possibility of an outbreak of diseases like cholera. Were that to happen, is the government prepared to deal with the consequences, especially given the current paralysis occasioned by the ongoing doctors’ strike?

The government should be commended for taking the initiative to move the victims. However, it must be reminded that more is needed to help the victims until they find their footing again. It is pointless to belabour the fact that people living in the camps require medication, food, clean water and blankets; support only the government can give and coordinate with help from organisations such as Kenya Red Cross, which has been doing a wonderful job.

There are many who believe the government should have declared a state of emergency over the flood menace to open doors for emergency help from the international community. They cannot be faulted because the government’s response shows it is faltering and unable to cope. Granted, President William Ruto promised each of the affected families Sh10,000 from the government. But while this is appreciated, the question arises; how long can it last under the prevailing circumstances?

The government must improve its disaster preparedness so that in such eventualities, it is in a position to offer instant help to victims. The government bears responsibility to ensure the well-being of Kenyans caught up in situations they have no control over.