El Niño rains: Sakaja urges Kenyans to prepare for floods

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has called on Kenyans to take proactive measures in anticipation of the El Niño rains set to arrive in October. Speaking in Kakamega on August 30, 2026, Sakaja warned that flooding could have serious repercussions if communities do not prepare. The government has mobilized disaster response teams and reinforced measures to mitigate the impact of heavy rains, according to Sakaja.

He urged Kenyans to heed weather advisories and cooperate with authorities, particularly if asked to relocate from flood-prone areas. Nairobi has increased preparations by assembling multi-agency teams to address drainage and emergency response. Residents are also responsible for keeping roads and drainage channels clear of waste to facilitate the success of these efforts.

Sakaja cautioned against littering on roads and in drainage systems, emphasizing that individual actions can significantly impact how communities cope with heavy rainfall. He praised residents near rivers for already moving to safer areas, urging others in vulnerable locations to take similar precautions. Sakaja stressed the importance of early preparation as Kenya faces the October-December rainfall season, urging residents to follow government instructions and evacuate promptly when asked to do so.

He emphasized that while the government is strengthening emergency response and disaster management, preparedness should not solely rest on authorities. The call follows ongoing efforts by government agencies to prepare communities for potential flooding and other weather-related emergencies during the rainy season. Sakaja also cautioned that adverse weather effects could extend beyond flooding, particularly for farmers and households reliant on agriculture.

He welcomed measures to reduce fertiliser costs but called for additional support to protect vulnerable Kenyans from the economic impacts of challenging weather conditions. He urged Kenyans to remain vigilant, monitor official forecasts, and adhere to government advisories as the country braces for the expected rains.