The Mathare settlement in Nairobi is grappling with the aftermath of the devastating floods from March to May 2024, which displaced over 7,000 residents and resulted in significant loss of life and property. The floods, exacerbated by climate change and the El Niño phenomenon, have highlighted the vulnerabilities of informal settlements. Survivors face ongoing struggles for basic necessities, while the community seeks sustainable solutions for recovery and future resilience against climate impacts.
In Nairobi’s Mathare settlement, the aftermath of the catastrophic floods during the March-to-May rainy season of 2024 continues to impact residents profoundly. These floods, worsened by the El Niño phenomenon, displaced over 7,000 individuals and resulted in 294 fatalities nationwide, affecting informal settlements disproportionately. Residents like Doreen Achieng have lost their homes and livelihoods, as their neighborhoods were submerged under three meters of water, leading to significant casualties and property loss.
The floods caused extensive damage, displacing around 55,000 households and decimating agriculture by killing livestock and flooding cropland. Victims sought refuge in temporary shelters in schools and community centers, facing severe shortages of food and essential supplies. Edward Okoth, a flood survivor, described conditions as dire, highlighting the fight for scarce resources in displacement camps.
The consequences of climate change, exemplified by rising temperatures and extreme weather events, notably affect vulnerable communities. High-density housing in informal settlements, typically located near rivers, increases flood risk. Reports by the Kenya Meteorological Department emphasize that the growth of these areas exposes more individuals to environmental hazards, exacerbated by factors like poor drainage systems.
Migration and displacement rates have surged across the Horn of Africa as people flee from natural disasters. Sharon Dimanche from the International Organization for Migration notes the rising numbers of displaced persons in the region, which went from 18.4 million in May 2024 to over 20 million by September 2024, largely driven by climate-related issues.
The floods disproportionately impacted women and children, heightening existing vulnerabilities. UNICEF’s report indicated severe risks for breastfeeding mothers and young infants. Following the floods, many children faced neglect or were unable to attend school, with Save the Children noting a significant increase in child labor as families struggled to survive.
In the wake of the floods, survivors in Mathare contend with not only material losses but also emotional trauma. Compounding their struggles, the government mandated the relocation of flood survivors from vulnerable areas, resulting in forced evictions and destroyed homes. Many residents feel hopeless about rebuilding their lives as they face permanent displacement.
Despite these challenges, some residents have shown resilience by converting previously flooded areas into productive vegetable gardens. They also benefit from a government initiative that supports urban river ecosystem rehabilitation while providing job opportunities. Authorities have pledged to expand the program significantly, increasing employment for many displaced individuals.
Long-term solutions are critical for reducing future vulnerability in Mathare, necessitating better infrastructure and disaster preparedness measures. Community involvement in urban planning is essential to ensure that the needs of at-risk populations are addressed effectively. Experts advocate for improved support mechanisms, as simply providing aid is insufficient for sustainable recovery.
The 2024 floods in Nairobi’s Mathare settlement highlight the intersection of vulnerability, climate change, and inadequate infrastructure. Displacement and loss of livelihood severely impacted the community, particularly women and children, who bore the brunt of disruptions. While immediate recovery efforts and government programs offer some hope, there is an urgent need for sustainable solutions to prevent future crises and equip vulnerable populations with the tools to adapt to ongoing environmental challenges.
Original Source: dialogue.earth
