Approximately 2460 people (410 families) have been displaced following floods that have hit parts of Budalangi Division of Busia district. The area which has been dogged by flooding for many years has been experiencing heavy downpours in the past week with the heaviest rainfall occurring in the last weekend. This led to an increase in the water levels in River Nzoia and the eventual bursting of its banks. The dykes which had been put up to prevent flooding have now broken up at Makunda area.
The displaced and affected persons are currently camping at Makunda Primary and Secondary schools, many devoid of food, shelter and clothing. Many areas around the division are currently under water.
Due to continuing heavy rains, the water levels are still rising and there are fears that more people could be displaced
Kenya Red Cross Action
The Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) was the first organisation to respond and is presently carrying out distribution in the affected areas. KRCS has distributed 410 tarpaulins, 820 plastic jerry cans, 410 packets of aqua tabs, 410 kitchen sets, 820 mosquito nets, 820 blankets, 410 pieces of soap, and 60 bags of Unimix worth approximately Kshs 1.8 million. The distribution was conducted at Mukhobola Health Centre where all the 410 families were reached.
KRCS is also collaborating with National Irrigation Board which is using tractors to redirect water into the Lake Victoria so as to reduce the amount of flood waters in the area. In addition, KRCS is working together with the government who have distributed maize and beans to the affected families.