New Delhi, May 14: In the wake of devastating floods in Kenya, India has stepped up to provide crucial aid and support. Minister of External Affairs, Dr S. Jaishankar, in a tweet, announced, “The second tranche of HARD materials containing 40 tonnes of medicines, medical supplies, and other equipment to assist flood victims leave for Kenya. Standing up for a historical partnership, a Vishwabandhu to the world” @DrSJaishankar).
The Indian Embassy in Kenya also highlighted the swift response from the Indian Navy. “Indian naval ship Sumedha, as the first responder in IOR, has handed over food, relief, and medicines for flood victims to the government of Kenya” (@IndiainKenya).
Recent heavy rains have caused severe flooding and landslides across Kenya. Around 100 people have died, with dozens more missing, according to the latest official estimates. As of Saturday, the confirmed death toll had risen to 83 after 13 more bodies were recovered in different parts of the country. The death toll is expected to increase as the rains continue to pound the country.
More than 130,000 people have been displaced by the floods, with dozens reported missing. The heavy rains have also affected other East African countries. Nearly 100,000 people have been displaced in Burundi, with 29 deaths reported. In Tanzania, at least 155 people have died due to the severe weather conditions.
One of the most tragic incidents occurred when a mudslide tore through villages near Mai Mahiu in Kenya, claiming at least 50 lives as residents slept. The flooding has also severely impacted the capital, Nairobi, turning roads into waterways and destroying homes.
The continuous downpour, which has persisted for six weeks, is attributed to the El Niño weather phenomenon, causing rivers and sewers to overflow and leading to widespread devastation. The military and the national government have been mobilized to work with local counties to support those in distress.