The National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Regional Development has expressed deep concern over the ongoing floods and landslides affecting several parts of the country, calling for immediate humanitarian assistance and stronger long-term measures to enhance disaster preparedness and climate resilience.
Speaking at Parliament Buildings on Wednesday, Committee Chairperson Hon. Peter Lochakapong (MP, Sigor) conveyed condolences to families who have lost loved ones and urged relevant agencies to expedite rescue and relief operations.
The disasters have so far claimed more than 34 lives, displaced hundreds of families, and caused extensive destruction to homes, schools, and roads in regions such as Chesongoch in Elgeyo Marakwet, Kimende Escarpment in Kiambu, Kamutungi in Embu, Tinderet in Nandi, and Narok South, with additional flood emergencies reported in Tana River, Laikipia, and the Lake Basin region.
Hon. Lochakapong, who was accompanied by Vice-Chairperson Hon. Liza Chelule (Nakuru County Woman Representative), Hon. Khamis Abdi Chome (Voi), Hon. Basil Robert (Yatta), and Hon. Paul Abuor (Rongo), said the government has activated a multi-agency emergency response involving the National and County Governments, the National Disaster Management Unit (NDMU), the Kenya Defence Forces, the Kenya Red Cross, and other humanitarian partners under the directive of President William Ruto.
“We want those tasked with the humanitarian efforts to move with speed and ensure that no more lives are lost,” Hon. Lochakapong stated, urging citizens in flood-prone areas to observe safety measures and cooperate with evacuation teams.
The Committee also cautioned Kenyans against crossing flooded roads or rivers and spreading unverified information that could incite panic, instead encouraging them to follow official weather updates from the Kenya Meteorological Department and the Ministry of Interior.
Hon. Lochakapong noted that Parliament is finalizing the Disaster Risk Management Bill, which will provide a comprehensive legal and institutional framework for disaster response, coordination, and recovery.
Once enacted, the law is expected to improve resource mobilization and community resilience, particularly against climate-related calamities.
“This tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the urgent need to strengthen our disaster preparedness and climate resilience measures,” he said.
Committee member Hon. Paul Abuor announced plans for a fact-finding mission to the affected regions, observing that rampant deforestation has worsened the situation. “Environmental conservation must be at the heart of our disaster mitigation efforts,” he emphasized.
Vice-Chairperson Hon. Liza Chelule extended condolences to affected families and appealed for parental vigilance during the long December school holidays to prevent children from falling victim to flood-related incidents.
The Committee also appealed to the international community, private sector, and well-wishers to support ongoing relief efforts through donations, technical assistance, and humanitarian aid.
“Together, we can and will rebuild stronger, safer, and more resilient communities for the future,” Hon. Chelule said.
The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to working with national and county governments to ensure timely, coordinated, and compassionate support for affected families while developing sustainable strategies to prevent future disasters.
