Flood victims from Nairobi’s Mukuru and Mathare sections were forced to stay in churches and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) offices after their houses were demolished by the government.
Speaking to the press, the residents narrated how they were forced to stay in offices as they waited for compensation from the government.
Further, the locals noted that they were forced to stay in one room, which included four men and 16 women, together with the children.
“On nights such as tonight, when it is raining heavily, we organize ourselves and squeeze into one room. When it’s not raining some sleep on the veranda,” one of the residents noted.
Further, one of the individuals explained that her house was washed away by water, and that her new home was also demolished.
Regina Gitau, a 71-year-old woman who has been living in Mathare for over 45 years as a widow, revealed that four out of her seven sons have passed away. Her remaining son is struggling with alcohol addiction, leaving Regina in desolate.
Desperate Victims Narrates
In addition, Regina also mentioned that they have not received the promised blankets, clothes, and other things to help them.
In addition, they are worried because another wave of heavy rains is expected this month, and their prayers for help have not been answered.
Also Read: Several Feared Dead After Building set for Demolition Collapses
Additionally, their representative also refuted claims by the government that over 28,000 victims were compensated in May.
Further, on May 6 President William Ruto had visited the victims of demolitions and had promised Ksh 10, 000 each for the victims to find alternative shelter.
“We have 40,000 households who were evacuated because of their safety, every household will receive Ksh10,000 to look for alternative housing waiting for government intervention,” Ruto noted.
Mathare Demolition
Consequently, starting in early May 2024, the national government began tearing down houses in flood-prone areas of Nairobi slums including Mathare.
Also Read: Gikomba Demolitions: Sakaja’s Office Clears Air on Planned Eviction
Additionally, in April, Nairobi County governor Johnson Sakaja directed Nairobi city dweller living near the rivers to move to safer places.
“It was resolved that all excavations along riparian have been suspended with immediate effect. All inhabitants along riverbeds and high areas must re-locate with immediate effect,” said the governor.
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