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Rwandan President Paul Kagame has extended his condolences to Kenyan President William Ruto and the people of Kenya following the devastating effects of the ongoing mass flooding in Nairobi and other parts of the country.

In a heartfelt message shared on social media, President Kagame expressed solidarity with Kenya during this challenging time.

He conveyed his sympathies for the families who have been displaced and for the lives lost as a result of the floods.

“My sincere condolences to you my brother, President@WilliamsRuto and the people of Kenya, for the families displaced and the lives lost in the ongoing mass flooding in Nairobi and other parts of the country. Rwanda stands in solidarity with you and the country in this difficult time,” Kagame wrote on X on Wednesday, May 1, 2024.

President Kagame’s message of support comes as a gesture of solidarity between the two East African nations.

The flooding, which has affected various regions in Kenya, including the capital city Nairobi, has caused significant disruption and damage to infrastructure, homes, and livelihoods. Thousands of families have been forced to evacuate their homes, seeking refuge in temporary shelters.

10 deaths in 24 hours

Updating the nation on flood-related casualties on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, Government spokesman Isaac Mwaura revealed a sobering increase in fatalities, with 10 more lives lost in the past 24 hours, bringing the total death toll to 179.

Additionally, 20 individuals are reported missing, while 125 people have been injured and are receiving medical attention.

“The ongoing flooding has displaced an additional 1,127 households, totalling 31,341 households and affecting 195,011 people. Displacement camps have been set up to provide alternative accommodation,” Mwaura explained in a statement.

Mwaura highlighted the continuous above-average rainfall forecasted for the country in this new month of May, which is expected to further exacerbate flooding and disrupt various social and economic activities.

He also revealed that the government has completed mapping out fragile ecosystems across the country, identifying areas posing significant dangers to public health and safety in the event of continued precipitation.

“The government calls upon Kenyans residing in flood-prone areas to relocate within 48 hours, including areas near dams, water reservoirs, mudslide and landslide-prone areas, and riparian lands. Alternative accommodation will be provided to those affected,” Mwaura stated.

He urged Kenyans to remain vigilant, follow safety guidelines, and adhere to flood alerts while cooperating with emergency responders and local authorities during evacuation and rescue operations.

To report flood emergencies, the public is advised to contact the National Disaster Operations Centre (NDOC) through the toll-free number 0800721571, Mwaura concluded.