Ruto Orders Emergency Response as Nairobi Floods Leave 23 Dead and Thousands Displaced

At least 23 people have died and thousands have been displaced after severe flooding swept through parts of Nairobi following heavy overnight rainfall, prompting the government to deploy emergency response teams across the city.

Severe flooding triggered by intense rainfall has inundated several neighbourhoods in Nairobi, leaving homes submerged and disrupting transport routes across the capital. Authorities say the disaster has affected large sections of the city, forcing residents to evacuate and halting movement along key roads.

President William Ruto announced a series of emergency measures on Saturday, expressing sympathy to families who lost relatives and pledging swift government support for those affected. In a statement, the President acknowledged the impact of the floods on communities and said the government would act quickly to assist victims and prevent further loss.

“The ongoing flooding in parts of Nairobi and several other areas of our country has caused immense distress to many families, resulting in the tragic loss of lives, displacement of residents, and damage to homes, property, and livelihoods,” he said. He added that the government stands “in solidarity with every citizen affected” and is moving quickly to limit further harm.

To coordinate the response, the President ordered the immediate deployment of a multi-agency emergency taskforce led by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration. The team includes the Kenya Defence Forces and other emergency services responsible for search and rescue operations, assisting displaced residents and relocating people living in high-risk areas.

The government has also authorised the release of relief supplies from national food reserves to support families who have lost homes or livelihoods. Medical assistance is also being prioritised, with authorities confirming that hospital bills for victims receiving treatment in public facilities will be paid by the state.

Flooding has affected many parts of the city, with informal settlements and densely populated neighbourhoods reporting the most damage. Communities in Mukuru, Kibra, Mathare, Huruma, South B and South C, Pipeline in Embakasi, Roysambu, Kahawa West and Githurai are among the worst affected. Sections of Westlands have also reported flooding, with rising water levels forcing some residents to leave their homes overnight.

Several major roads have also been disrupted. Sections of Uhuru Highway, Mombasa Road, the Thika Superhighway, Jogoo Road, Enterprise Road and Lang’ata Road were partially or completely submerged, bringing traffic to a standstill in some areas and slowing emergency response operations.

The National Police Service is playing a central role in rescue efforts. Police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said at least 29 people had been rescued from different parts of the city as officers responded to distress calls.

“We are pleased to report that 29 people were successfully rescued from various locations and are receiving the necessary support,” Nyaga said.

He added that police remain deployed across affected areas and are working with other agencies to assist residents and maintain safety. Authorities have also urged the public to remain alert as heavy rainfall continues. Motorists and pedestrians have been advised to exercise caution and follow official guidance. Emergencies can be reported through the national toll-free lines 999, 911 and 112.

Rapid urban growth, informal settlements along riverbanks and blocked drainage channels have repeatedly increased the impact of heavy rainfall. President Ruto said the ongoing Nairobi River Regeneration Programme forms part of the government’s longer-term plan to address these challenges. The project aims to restore river ecosystems, improve drainage capacity and reduce flood risks within the capital.