Over 1,000 families living near Lake Naivasha are facing displacement after surging water levels flooded homes and farms for the third time in five years, with Kihoto Estate emerging as the most affected area.
Heavy rains pounding parts of the Rift Valley and other regions are expected to persist for at least six more days, according to the Kenya Meteorological Department. In Naivasha, the impact is already being felt as floodwaters inundate homes, schools, and farmlands, forcing dozens of families to seek refuge in neighboring areas.
Residents have raised alarm over growing health concerns after latrines and boreholes in Kihoto were submerged, raising the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera and malaria. The estate, home to hundreds of flower farm workers, has repeatedly suffered from flooding, with a major displacement reported three years ago under similar conditions.
“The water levels are rising daily,” said Richard Mwathi, a local resident. “Many families are trapped in flooded houses, unable to relocate due to financial constraints.”
Alice Kibe, another resident, echoed the fears, noting this is the third time the estate has been submerged. “Contaminated water is a real threat now. Many families used loans to build their homes, and they have nowhere to go,” she said, adding that school children and small-scale farmers were also affected.
Community elder James Muchiri emphasized the need for long-term solutions. “Kihoto has suffered massive damage. The only lasting solution is the construction of dykes to control the water,” he said.
Paul Gitau, another resident, supported the call for dykes, pointing out that similar flood-control measures have helped other areas around the lake.
In response, Nakuru County’s Chief Officer for Public Health, Joyce Ncece, confirmed that residents had been warned to relocate from the vulnerable lakefront areas. “This is not the first time we’re seeing such flooding. Unfortunately, many return once the waters recede,” she said in a phone interview.
As rains continue and waters rise, pressure mounts on county authorities to act swiftly to prevent further displacement and protect the health and livelihoods of the affected communities.
Written By Rodney Mbua
