Kiambu County has rallied water companies to help clear drainage systems and reduce flood risks ahead of the anticipated El Nino rains.
The move comes after Governor Kimani Wamatangi met with the managing directors of water companies in the county to work on modalities of cleaning drainage channels to avert expected floods during the heavy rains.
According to the weatherman, Kenya is expected to experience strong El Niño conditions from October 2026.
The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) says there is an 81 percent probability that the 2026 El Niño will develop into a very strong event, while there is a 91 percent chance of the conditions persisting into early 2027.
KMD has also indicated that rainfall is expected to increase from October, with most parts of the country likely to receive above-average rainfall during the October-November-December season.
Kiambu is among the counties identified as being at risk of the anticipated weather conditions, with authorities particularly concerned about flooding and landslides.
The county’s location within the upper Athi River catchment also makes drainage and stormwater management important during periods of heavy rainfall.
The water companies have been tasked with identifying and listing hot-spot areas in their jurisdiction to guide targeted action.
“Sanitation isn’t just about sewer water; service water and drainage are part of the picture too. Water companies must think holistically about their role and responsibility to the communities they serve,” Wamatangi said.
Kiambu County’s government has mobilized equipment and casual laborers to unclog blocked drainage networks to prevent flooding.
So far drainage inspections have been done at Kimbo-Matangine, Biashara Ward, and Gitothua by County Executive Committee Member (CECM) David Kuria.
Wamatangi regretted that when floods hit infrastructure, the whole county paid the price and that every water company has a part to play in El Niño and disaster mitigation efforts.
The County Executive Committee (CEC) and Governor Wamatangi commended the companies for their commitment and support in this critical initiative.
By Michele Kiptoo and Grace Naishoo
