Garissa: Garissa Governor, Nathif Jama, has called on the National Government to devise a permanent solution to manage the flooding of River Tana, suggesting that some of the river's waters be redirected to drought-stricken areas. The governor emphasized the urgent need for action to prevent the recurring devastation caused by flooding in downstream counties.
According to Kenya News Agency, while Garissa has experienced minimal rainfall this season, the water levels of River Tana are rising due to heavy rains in upstream regions. Originating from the slopes of Mount Kenya and the Aberdare mountains, River Tana flows eastward through Garissa and Tana River counties before emptying into the Indian Ocean at the Tana Delta. Several tributaries, including the Chania, Thiba, Maragua, and Thika rivers, contribute to River Tana's flow.
Over the past two years, the flooding has resulted in significant losses for communities along the river, with hundreds of farmers in Garissa and Tana River counties losing both lives and livelihoods. The floods have also damaged infrastructure, including the Garissa - Madogo road, which is undergoing reconstruction. Last year, at least 20 individuals were swept away by the floodwaters in Garissa.
The situation is exacerbated when the Massinga, Kiambere, Kamburu, Gitaru, and Kndaruma dams reach capacity, prompting the release of excess water and subsequent flooding in downstream areas. During Iddul-Fitr celebrations at General Mohamud grounds in Garissa, Jama highlighted the prolonged suffering caused by floodwaters from other regions, stressing the need for a sustainable resolution.
Jama criticized the National Government for its inaction, stating, "It is shameful that we have not been able to get a permanent solution when it comes to floods. We lack goodwill from the National government because we have made suggestions that the water be diverted to the northern parts of the country where there is a lack of water."
The call for action was echoed by SUPKEM Secretary, Garissa branch, Sheikh Abdillahi Salat, who urged residents along the river to relocate to higher ground to avoid the danger of flooding.