The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) has issued warnings about the potential impact of El Niño-induced flooding, emphasizing that low-income families and informal settlements are most at risk. The commission urged authorities to learn from the 2024 flood experiences to ensure equitable protection and emergency support for vulnerable groups.
Officials noted that over 80% of Kenya is at risk of flooding, with the worst effects likely to hit marginalized communities. The KHRC called for improved early warning systems and disaster preparedness, stressing that current infrastructure and policies fail to adequately protect the poorest residents.
The warning comes amid growing concerns about climate change and its effects on regional weather patterns. While no immediate disaster has been reported, the commission urged local governments to prioritize the needs of informal settlement residents.
The KHRC also highlighted the need for better coordination between national and local authorities to address the humanitarian crisis that could follow heavy rains.
