Nairobi deploys Green Army personnel in flood response,as assessment on affected families continue

The operation comes after Friday night’s heavy rains triggered flooding in several estates, leaving homes inundated, motorists stranded and residents trapped in different parts of the city. 

County emergency hotlines received numerous distress calls between 7 p.m. and 3 a.m., prompting the activation of disaster response teams. 

Flood incidents were reported in areas including Dagoretti, Parklands, South B, South C, Kariokor, Buruburu, Umoja, parts of the CBD, Kibera, Nairobi West, Kariobangi South, Eastleigh, Lang’ata and Kamukunji, among others. 

In a statement to Media, in addition to the Green Army deployment, the county has activated 18 Community Based Disaster Response Teams comprising about 100 personnel to assist with search and rescue operations, evacuations and public awareness on flood risks in affected communities. 

Preliminary reports indicate that several homes were affected and some families displaced, with Disaster Management Chief officer Bramwel  Simiyu confirming that assessments are ongoing to determine the full extent of the damage. 

"Humanitarian support, including blankets and other essential relief supplies, will be provided to affected households once the assessment exercise is completed," Simiyu confirmed.

The floods also caused damage to key water infrastructure, disrupting supply in some areas after pipelines along Outering Road, Eastleigh–Kiambiu, Korogocho–Dandora and Brookside Drive were affected. 

Technical teams from the Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company have since been mobilised to repair the damaged lines and restore supply. 

Heavy machinery including backhoes, wheel loaders, flushing units and excavators has also been deployed to assist in clearing drainage systems and mitigating further flooding. 

City Hall has urged residents to remain vigilant, avoid flooded roads and riverbanks, and cooperate with emergency teams as the county maintains round-the-clock monitoring and rapid response operations.

Residents can report emergencies through the county hotlines: 020 2222181, 020 2223182, 020 2222183 and 020 2344599.