Heavy rains trigger floods in Mombasa, Kwale and Kilifi, affecting transport

Heavy rains lasting over 24 hours triggered floods in Mombasa, Kwale, and Kilifi counties, disrupting transportation, submerging homes, and endangering lives. On September 12, 2026, several areas in Mombasa, such as Likoni Ferry, Burukenge, Ziwa La Ng’ombe, Enuka, Railway, and Ziwani, were significantly affected. The heavy rains and strong waves disrupted ferry operations between Mombasa Island and the mainland, leaving many passengers stranded.

In Burukenge, residents struggled to rescue their belongings as floodwaters mixed with sewage, entering homes and destroying items like mattresses, clothes, a cooker, and food. Health facilities faced access issues, with pregnant women and other patients unable to reach facilities like the Ziwa La Ng’ombe Health Centre. Authorities are preparing for potential displacement due to anticipated El Niño rains, with over 80,000 families in Kilifi potentially affected.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir suggested halting quarrying and restricting heavy vehicles if rains persisted, while urging construction firms to finish building before heavy rains arrived. Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni emphasized the need to prevent contamination and early detection of illnesses amidst the health risks posed by flooding.