Residents of Kitui County have been asked to heed government advisories to avoid crossing swollen rivers this rainy season to avert loss of lives and property.
Speaking to KNA in his office, Kitui County Commissioner, Thomas Sankei, noted that several people have lost their lives and property after ignoring government’s directives regarding flooded rivers in the County.
“At their own peril and discretion, many lives have been lost due to negligence of these advisories. The choice to protect lives fundamentally lies with the individual. I appeal to wananchi to wait for swollen waters to subside before crossing,” warned the County Commissioner.
Sankei pointed out that as the county mourns the recent loss of 32 lives at the deadly Enziu River on December 4, there is greater need to be alert and cautious, when wananchi reach swollen rivers to prevent possible loss of lives.
He said the weather forecast during the last one week showed that the County received 197mm of rainfall.
“This County is experiencing torrential rainfall. This portends possible flooding and displacement of people in the lowlands of the County,” warned Sankei.
The County Commissioner disclosed that the County has set in motion contingency plans to mitigate the expected floods.
“We have set up a Central Command Center to respond to disasters. It will be headed by the County Police Commander. The 24-hour desk has been unveiled at the Kitui Red Cross Office,” said Sankei.
The County Commissioner further said that the County Government will be tasked to mobilize resources to cater for food, water, medical supplies and evacuation vehicles.
He called on members of the County Disaster Team, to remain on high alert as the peak rain season enters its homestretch in December.
Separately, Sankei disclosed that the County Security Team is on high alert to ensure that people in Kitui enjoy the Christmas festivities without adverse incidences.
“All our security apparatus is on guard all round the clock to ensure wananchi enjoy their holidays peacefully with their loved ones, families and friends,” said the County Commissioner.
By Yobesh Onwong’a
