Kenya Defence Forces Deployed as Floods Displace Hundreds in Nairobi

Kenya has deployed military personnel to Nairobi to support search-and-rescue efforts after heavy rains flooded more than 100 homes and displaced hundreds of residents.

The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) were sent to assist emergency teams as conditions worsened across affected areas. Nairobi North County Commissioner Simon Onsumba said the deployment was required due to the scale of the damage, particularly in Utawala. 

The Kenya Red Cross reported that about 650 households in estates including Jacaranda, Sisal, Milimani, Motomoto, and Riara have been evacuated. Rescue teams have so far saved three people who were trapped by rising water.

Flooding has also affected neighbouring counties, including Machakos, Kajiado, Mombasa, Kwale, and Lamu. Transport has been disrupted, with passengers stranded along the Ruai bypass after flooding made the road impassable. 

Water levels in the Tana River continue to rise, and Masinga Dam has reached full capacity, prompting controlled releases. Tana River County Commissioner Joseph Wamuti said more than 700 households in Abakuyu and Anole villages are at risk of displacement.

The Kenya Meteorological Service Authority had issued earlier warnings of a high flood risk in low-lying areas. At least three people have died after being swept away by floodwaters in Nairobi earlier this week. 

Infrastructure has also been affected, including a temporary closure of the Iten-Kabarnet Road following a landslide near Kolol, although the route has since reopened. This is the second military deployment in response to flooding within two months. 

In March, President William Ruto ordered the KDF and other agencies to step up rescue and relief operations in affected regions.