The Dubai United Arab Emirates (UAE), has dispatched two aircrafts loaded with 80 tones of essential relief supplies to support the Kenyan government’s efforts in dealing with the flood’s crisis.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has announced that the supplies will be distributed to the victims of the heavy rainfall being experienced in the country.
Further, Mwaura asked other nations and friends of Kenya to continue standing in solidarity with the country in the same way.
“In this regard, the Government of the United Arab Emirates has dispatched two aircrafts loaded with 80 tones of essential relief supplies to support the government’s efforts.
“The Government of the Republic of Kenya conveys its sincere appreciation and calls upon other friends of Kenya to stand with us during this flooding emergency,” he said.
Dubai in the UAE has also been hit by flooding that submerged roads and vehicles and caused flight diversions.
Because of the rainfall, schools across the UAE remained closed and most government employees were directed to work from home.
Those who drove out were trapped by the raging waters and the engines of their cars destroyed and, in many cases, submerged.
According to the Dubai weatherman, 158mm of rain fell in 24 hours, equivalent to the typical yearly average amount of rainfall received in the area.
Also Read: Kenya Airways Cancels Dubai Flights Over Floods
Death Toll of Floods Rises to 188
At the same time, Mwaura announced that death toll for the heavy rainfall and floods in the country had risen to 188 (151 adults and 37 children).
125 people have been injured so far while 90 have been reported missing.
The floods have also led to the displacement of an additional 1,759 households in the last 24 hours, raising the number of displaced households to 33,100, comprising of approximately 165,500 persons.
“It is with sorrow that we report the unfortunate loss of 9 precious lives, 4 adults and 5 children, in the last 24 hours. (1 adult in Makueni County, 1 child in Nakuru County,
“1 adult in Nandi County, 1 child in Bomet County, 1 child and 1 adult in Narok County, 2 children in Uasin Gishu County and 1 adult in Homa Bay County),” he said.
Additionally, the death toll from the Mai Mahiu Mudslide has risen to 50 (32 adults and 18 children), while 73 people were injured and are recuperating in different health facilities.
Also, 69 persons have been reported as missing.
“The government sends its most heartfelt condolences to the families and friends who have lost their loved ones and wishes the injured a quick recovery,” added Mwaura.
Mwaura Addresses Govt Efforts Aside from Dubai Donations
On the other hand, Mwaura said that the National Multi-Agency Emergency Response Committee on floods, is coordinating various response initiatives to cushion the affected populations from the effects of the floods.
“The committee continues with need assessments to ensure proportionate distribution of government relief items including Food and Non-Food Items to the 196,296 citizens affected by this flooding emergency.
The government has also stepped up a multi-agency Search and Rescue/Retrieval (SAR) exercise in Nakuru, Nairobi, Kirinyaga, Homa Bay and Tana River counties.
Also, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and the National Youth Service (NYS) have been deployed to assist in the ongoing search and retrieval efforts in Mai Mahiu.
“To report flood related emergencies, wananchi are advised to call the National Disaster Operations Centre (NDOC) through the number 0800 721,” the spokesperson indicated.
