Government activates national response ahead of El Niño rains

The Kenyan government has activated a nationwide emergency response plan in anticipation of forecasted El Niño rains. Agencies are positioned on standby to address potential flooding and associated hazards. Coordination will occur through the National Disaster Operations Centre, under the National Contingency Plan. The Kenya Coast Guard Service, Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service, Kenya Red Cross Society, and National Youth Service have pledged to carry out continuous search-and-rescue operations if required.

Evacuation and displacement centers have been established, equipped with a standardized registration system to monitor displaced individuals and aid delivery. Alternative transport routes will be utilized if roads or infrastructure are damaged, with air support provided by the National Disaster Operations Centre when necessary. Health authorities have initiated emergency measures to prepare for possible outbreaks of disease due to flooding, activating the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre and Incident Management System to bolster disease surveillance and prevent waterborne and vector-borne illnesses.

The government has ensured a supply of essential commodities and water-quality monitoring to maintain public health safety. Food stocks have been pre-positioned in 10 counties susceptible to the rain's impact, including Tana River, Garissa, Kisumu, Busia, Nakuru, Mombasa, Kilifi, Wajir, Mandera, and Turkana. Relief materials have also been positioned for deployment to evacuation centers.

Protection monitoring will be implemented to address the needs of vulnerable groups impacted by displacement or other emergencies. Farmers will be provided with tailored agricultural guidance as weather conditions develop, and livestock disease surveillance will escalate to prevent outbreaks. Schools will undergo an assessment to ensure their functionality and shelter materials will be secured if they serve as temporary displacement centers.

Counties are given the responsibility to lead in preparedness, response, and recovery, collaborating with national government institutions and local partners. Humanitarian organizations are aligned with national priorities to prevent duplication and service gaps. Refugee operations in Dadaab, Kakuma, and Kalobeyei will maintain coordination by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees alongside the Department of Refugee Services.

The government intends to continually evaluate the weather situation and modify emergency plans and response strategies as the rain-related risks evolve.