Sakaja outlines emergency response as heavy rains cause flooding and hazards in Nairobi
By Valerian Khakayi, March 7, 2026Nairobi County Governor Johnson Sakaja has updated the public on the ongoing rainfall and the emergency measures in place to safeguard lives and property across the city.
Sakaja, in an official statement issued on Friday night, March 6, 2026, said that the Nairobi City County Disaster Management and Risk Department has fully mobilised all available resources and personnel to manage the situation.
He also urged the residents to remain vigilant, prioritise their safety, and use the emergency hotlines provided.
“The Nairobi City County Government wishes to update members of the public on the current rainfall situation and the comprehensive measures currently in place to safeguard lives and property across the capital,” Sakaja’s statement reads.
“Nairobi City County Disaster Management and Risk Department has fully mobilised all available resources and personnel to manage the situation, urging residents to remain vigilant, prioritise their safety, and utilise the emergency hotlines provided.”
According to the governor, the County has activated its Multi-Sectoral Disaster and Flood Mitigation Committee to provide 24-hour monitoring and rapid response services.
“The County has activated its Multi-Sectoral Disaster and Flood Mitigation Committee to provide 24-hour monitoring and rapid response services,” Sakaja added.
Emergency response
In addition, Sakaja confirmed that the Green Army and technical teams from the Mobility and Works sector are deployed across all 17 sub-counties for emergency de-silting of drains and clearing waterways.
The County is working closely with KeNHA and KURA to ensure that major road arteries remain passable. KURA contractors have been instructed to carry out urgent mitigation work, including opening blocked drains, removing fallen trees, and clearing debris, to ensure the safety of both motorists and pedestrians.
“The ‘Green Army’ and technical teams from the Mobility and Works sector are deployed across all 17 sub-counties for emergency de-silting of drains and clearing of waterways,” he added.
“NCCG is working in close coordination with KeNHA and KURA to ensure major road arteries remain motorable. Specifically, all KURA contractors have been directed to be on the ground immediately to conduct urgent mitigation on their corridors. This includes opening up drainage blockages, removing fallen trees, and clearing debris to ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians.”
He added that all emergency staff are on standby and actively conducting rescue operations in affected areas, adding that fire and Disaster Management units have been deployed with specialised equipment at identified hotspots.
“All emergency staff are on standby and currently conducting active rescue operations in affected areas. Our Fire and Disaster Management units are deployed with specialised equipment at identified hotspots. A Multi-Agency team, including the National Police Service and the Kenya Red Cross, is coordinating all field responses for maximum efficiency,” Sakaja noted.
Additionally, he added that low-lying areas and informal settlements at high risk of flooding have been identified.
“We have identified low-lying areas at risk of flooding. Temporary evacuation centres equipped with essential supplies have been established for residents in high-risk zones,” he pointed out.
Public safety
The governor emphasised that public safety remains the county’s highest priority and urged residents to follow official guidance, exercise caution, and remain alert to changing road conditions as heavy rains continue.
“Avoid Crossing Swollen Rivers: Do not attempt to cross flooded roads or bridges on foot or in vehicles. Electrical Safety: Stay away from downed power lines and do not stand under trees during storms,” Sakaja added.
“Report Blockages: Use the provided hotlines to report blocked drains or infrastructure damage.”