Tens of families affected by the Mai Mahiu flood tragedy have now petitioned Parliament to intervene and expedite their resettlement, one year after the devastating incident.
The tragic event, which unfolded in the dead of night, saw raging floodwaters tear through several villages, leaving more than 60 people dead and hundreds injured.
President William Ruto, who led government officials in the immediate response to the disaster, had assured the affected residents of a comprehensive resettlement plan and support to rebuild their lives.
However, a year later, the promise remains unfulfilled and the victims continue to endure despair, worsening economic hardship, and mental health challenges.
Mary Wanjiku, one of the survivors, urged Parliament to step in and ensure the resettlement process is fast-tracked noting that many families struggle to pay rent due to a lack of financial support.
“The tragedy robbed us of our loved ones, leaving us with physical disabilities and mental trauma and only proper resettlement will offer us some relief,” said Wanjiku.
Another victim, John Karora, echoed the plea, calling on Parliament to pressure the relevant authorities to resettle the displaced and help them begin their lives after months of suffering.
John Njoroge added that some survivors cannot afford rent or necessities due to the ongoing economic strain, compounded by medical issues stemming from the disaster.
The victims were speaking in Mai Mahiu after receiving assorted food donations from Action in Focus Foundation in collaboration with Valley Light Children’s Home.
According to Njoroge of Valley Light Children’s Home, the government must honour its commitment to resettle the affected families and bring an end to their prolonged suffering.
He also appealed to the government to lift a caveat on land which has prevented victims from subdividing and utilising their parcels to raise funds and rebuild their livelihoods.
Njoroge noted that, through the organisation, over 10,000 families have benefited from donations so far, yet many victims continue to suffer from psychological distress and financial challenges.
Eric Karani from Action in Focus Foundation said the donated foodstuffs were aimed at supporting the affected families as they await lasting solutions.
