US-based humanitarian organization Human Rights Watch has accused the Kenyan government of ignoring early warnings of the ongoing heavy rainfall and destructive floods across the country.
In a statement on May 2, Human Rights Watch also said that Kenyan authorities have failed to adequately respond to the flash floods and protect Kenyans from harm.
According to the statement, the Kenya Meteorological Department had issued a warning of heavy rain early enough for the government to prepare adequately.
President William Ruto has also been put on the spot for failing to declare the crisis a national disaster despite calls from opposition leaders and the clergy.
“Kenyan authorities have not responded adequately to flash floods resulting from heavy rains. Kenya’s government has a human rights obligation to prevent foreseeable harm from climate change and extreme weather events and to protect people when a disaster strikes.
“The unfolding devastation highlights the government’s obligation to prepare for and promptly respond to the foreseeable impacts of climate change and natural disasters,” Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch Nyagoah Tut Pur said.
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Human Rights Watch Explains how Govt Has Failed Kenyans
At the same time, the organization noted that social media videos and mainstream media reports indicate that the affected people were receiving little to no support from the government.
This was especially seen when the victims needed help to reach safety or access essential services such as shelter, health care, and food assistance.
“Media reported that police and rescue teams’ helplines were unresponsive in some locations,” stated the US based organization.
On the other hand, it explained that the comprehensive National Climate Change Action Plan 2023-2027 identified flooding as a risk, areas that could be affected, and highlighted ways to mitigate it.
Then immediately after the El Nino rains, the government announced that at least Ksh10 billion would be released to prepare a nationwide response.
However, the government failed to put in place a timely national response plan. In August 2023, the Ministry of Health started coordinating with county governments to stock up medical supplies and begin cholera vaccinations.
“As early as May 2023, the Kenya Meteorological Department warned that the country would experience enhanced rainfall due to El Niño between May-July and October-December, continuing into early 2024.
“But in October, President William Ruto announced, mistakenly, that Kenya would not experience El Niño rains as earlier predicted,” added the statement.
Also Read: Police Issue Order on Beaches After Ruto Directive
Announcement on Cyclone and Prolonged Heavy Rainfall
Following a cabinet meeting held on May 2, the government issued an advisory to residents in the coastal region over the cyclone explaining that it is likely to cause heavy rainfall, large waves and strong winds in the region.
President William Ruto, who was chairing the meeting said that flooding is expected in low-lying areas as are landslides and mudslides.
“Crucially, the coastal region is likely to experience Cyclone Hidaya, which will result in heavy rainfall, large waves and strong winds that could affect marine activities in the Indian Ocean,” read part of the statement.
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