Farouk Kibet urges Budalangi residents to move to safer ground ahead of El Niño
President William Ruto’s aide Farouk Kibet has urged residents of Budalangi in Busia County to move to safer and higher ground ahead of the expected El Niño rains, warning communities in flood-prone areas to take precautions before the rains intensify. Kibet, speaking on Sunday, September 20, 2026, after attending a church service in Budalangi alongside […]
Farouk Kibet, President William Ruto's aide, has cautioned residents of Budalangi in Busia County to seek higher ground ahead of the anticipated El Niño rains, urging them to take necessary precautions against potential flooding. Speaking on September 20, 2026, Kibet, alongside National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula and United Democratic Alliance (UDA) allies, implored families in flood-prone regions to relocate to safer locations as the country anticipates the October-December rainfall season.
"Natural disasters and the coming of the rains, I urge everyone to find a safe place because this El Niño season will arrive, and it will impact our people if we do not move to safer ground," Kibet stated. This advisory follows Kenya's preparation for the heightened rainfall season, with the Kenya Meteorological Department predicting above-average rainfall in various parts of the country, including Busia.
Budalangi, situated near the lower reaches of River Nzoia, is especially susceptible to flooding as the river drains into Lake Victoria through the sub-county. The government has flagged Budalangi as one of the areas needing heightened preparedness due to the impending rains. The Ministry of Health has also identified the area as requiring special attention due to the potential health impacts of flooding.
The National Disaster Operations Centre has warned that Busia, along with other Lake Basin counties, may experience flooding, landslides, disease outbreaks, and displacement during the rainy season. Kibet's warning underscores the vulnerability of Budalangi's flood plain, where rising River Nzoia levels can lead to flooding when heavy rains fall upstream.
Busia County's climate profile highlights River Nzoia as one of its major rivers, noting the area's significant exposure to intense rainfall and associated agricultural risks. Authorities are urging residents in flood-prone and riverine areas to monitor official weather alerts, avoid crossing flooded rivers and roads, safeguard important documents and property, and evacuate early if evacuation is advised.
Written by urgent.news from People Daily Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
