April 26, 2024 (DJIBOUTI, Djibouti): The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) extends profound solidarity to the people and government of Kenya in the wake of severe flash floods triggered by heavy rains across the country. These floods have led to significant loss of life, displacement, and extensive damage to property and infrastructure across 24 out of 47 counties in the past week.
The IGAD Secretariat acknowledges the profound challenges posed by these floods and expresses sincere compassion for those severely affected. We urge extreme caution and vigilance throughout the region, emphasising the importance of adhering to safety measures and disaster preparedness protocols to mitigate further harm.
According to the IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC), forecasts for the week of April 27 – May 4, 2024, indicate ongoing threats of heavy rainfall in central to western Kenya, northern Uganda, southern Ethiopia, and central Somalia. Additionally, precipitation forecasts for May suggest enhanced rainfall, particularly in the eastern part of the Greater Horn of Africa region. This poses a continued risk of flooding in hotspot areas such as the Juba-Shebelle basins and urban centers in areas with high probabilities of above-average rainfall.
The IGAD Executive Secretary, H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, extends heartfelt sympathies to those affected and commends the Kenyan Multi-Agency Response Team on Floods, led by H.E. William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, for their timely efforts in responding to the crisis, especially in Nairobi and neighbouring counties.
“As floods continue to pose challenges in the region, IGAD remains committed to collaborating with its member states to address climate change through both mitigation and adaptation strategies,” emphasised Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu. “Our current forecasts highlight the persistent threat of heavy rainfall, underscoring the need for enhanced regional cooperation in early warning systems. Working together is our strongest asset in navigating the challenges we face and building a resilient future for generations to come.”
Through our Climate Centre – ICPAC, IGAD will continue to provide timely forecasts and advisory measures to safeguard lives and livelihoods, ensuring a safer and more secure region for all.
Technical Report on the ongoing flood impact in the IGAD region
Note to editors:
IGAD encourages media and climate information users to consult ICPAC’s weekly and monthly updates of the forecasted season: www.icpac.net. For downscaled country information, please contact the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services.
For media interviews and requests, please contact:
Djibouti (Secretariat)
Patience Nyange : +254 722 499 837, patience.nyange@igad.int
Austine Opata : +254725170375, austine.opata@igad.int
Nairobi (ICPAC)
Paula Machio: +254 746 511 941, paula.machio@igad.int
Edwin Kiplagat: +254 724 874 765, edwin.kiplagat@igad.int
