Kenya Roundup: Floods, partnerships, boat capsizes, squatters face eviction

Relief for flood victims

The Kenyan government has increased efforts to distribute food and non-food items to families affected by the floods. Parts of the country have been affected by floods following continuous rains in recent times. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua indicated that state agencies are working with other partners to support displaced persons. Respective agencies have also been directed to repair infrastructure destroyed by the rains, KBC reports.

Schools affected by rains

Parents have been warned about the adverse effects of the ongoing rains on the reopening week for schools. The National Parents Association proposed a change in opening dates for affected schools. Meanwhile, the Meteorological department has warned of heavier rains in the coming days. Over 50 people have been reported so far. According to The Star, many schools across the country have been affected by the rains.

Boat capsizes, many feared dead

Many persons are feared dead after a boat capsized in Mororo, Bangale, Tana River County while crossing from Madogo to Garissa. The incident which is said to have happened on April 28 affected at least 17 persons. Although it is unclear how many people were on board at the time of the incident, rescue efforts by the police and the Red Cross Personnel are underway. Meanwhile17 persons have been rescued so far, according to Nation.

Kenya and Zimbabwe sign partnerships

Kenya and Zimbabwe are in partnership to enhance trade and investment in both countries. Both countries have signed agreements to boost some of the major sectors of the country. These include four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) which include the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ) to create a framework for the exchange of scientific and technical knowledge. An agreement in the field of Transport and transport infrastructure was also signed, KBC confirmed.

Squatters face eviction

Hundreds of squatters who have failed to regularise their plots at the East African Portland Company (EAPCC) in Mavoko sub-county, Machakos County are facing eviction. The cement giant is currently in the process of disposing of 2,872 non-registered plots, six months after the regularisation process. EAPCC issued a 14-day public notice in local dailies offering to sell land parcels under the regularization model but many plot owners have failed to claim the plots leading to the company’s decision, Nation reports.