The 2024 floods in Mathare resulted in over 7,000 displaced people, highlighting the vulnerability of informal settlements in urban Kenya. Survivors like Doreen Achieng lost their homes and livelihoods, struggling to survive amidst scarce resources. The catastrophe exacerbated existing inequalities, particularly affecting women and children. Efforts are needed to provide sustainable solutions and infrastructure to prevent future disasters and aid recovery.
In the wake of the devastating floods between March and May 2024, the informal settlement of Mathare, nestled beneath Nairobi’s skyline, reflects the tragic consequences of nature striking vulnerable communities. These floods claimed lives and properties, displacing over 7,000 residents by late April, as reported by Save the Children. By October, survivors were grappling with the enormity of their losses, drawing international attention to the catastrophe.
Doreen Achieng, a mother of four, shared her terrifying experience as the floodwaters surged into her home, ultimately claiming everything she owned. Her life as a food vendor was disrupted immensely since the area where her customers once gathered had been decimated. With many neighbors missing, the aftermath has left her struggling to pay for rent and her children’s schooling.
The Kenya Red Cross reported that the floods resulted in 294 fatalities and displaced approximately 55,000 households, affecting Nairobi’s informal settlements the most. Here, residents often find themselves living on riverbanks, making them especially susceptible to flooding. Edward Okoth, another victim, recounted the hardships in a displacement camp where resources were scarce and people often fought for food.
The floods were exacerbated by the El Niño weather phenomenon—a climate condition causing significant changes to global rainfall patterns. The rising occurrence of such extreme weather events underscores the vulnerability of poorer communities in African nations to natural disasters. Increased pressure from poorly planned urban growth and insufficient drainage systems further heightens the risks for those living in informal settlements like Mathare.
The recent changes in weather patterns have also led to a rise in migration due to the combined effects of climate and conflict. Sharon Dimanche of the International Organization for Migration noted that the region saw an increase in displaced persons, hitting over 20 million by September 2024. This influx raises significant challenges, as Kenya must also accommodate those migrating due to worsening climate conditions.
Women and children are often disproportionately impacted by disasters like the recent floods. A Unicef report highlighted the severe risks to nursing mothers and young children during such emergencies. Findings showed many children faced neglect and halted education in the aftermath, causing a concerning rise in child labor as families struggled to survive.
Compounding these issues, government evacuations of residents from flood-prone areas led to forced demolitions of homes, increasing their vulnerability. Many households were left without shelter as authorities dismantled their homes, pushing residents to rely on inadequate sanitation options. Susan Akinyi from Mathare described the distressing returns to “flying toilets,” emphasizing the deteriorating conditions.
Yet amid hardship, some Mathare residents are finding resilience. They have transformed the once-destroyed riverbanks into thriving vegetable gardens that provide both nourishment and income. Some survivors are benefiting from a government initiative providing daily stipends, aimed at boosting job opportunities while rehabilitating the environment.
Despite these small victories, residents stress the need for sustainable support. They are calling for improved infrastructure and effective flood defenses to enhance their resilience against future disasters. Easter Okech of the Kenya Female Advisory Organization asserted that government agencies need proper contingency planning and budget allocations for emergency shelters.
Although the scars of the floods may never fully heal, residents in Mathare hold onto hope. With ongoing support and better urban planning, many believe they can emerge stronger and more prepared for future challenges, striving for a more secure future.
The aftermath of the 2024 floods in Mathare highlights the vulnerabilities faced by informal settlements amidst climate change and inadequate infrastructure. Despite immense hardship and disproportionate impacts on women and children, the community exhibits resilience through innovative recovery efforts. The need for effective governance and sustainable support measures is paramount to ensure these communities can withstand future disasters and improve their living conditions.
Original Source: dialogue.earth
