Prof. Kithure Kindiki, the Interior Cabinet Secretary, has issued an order prioritizing the safety of residents in flood-prone areas. They are instructed to leave by 6.30 p.m. on Friday, May 3, 2024, or face forcible eviction, ensuring their protection from potential harm. 

The people under the evacuation orders are those who live in areas prone to landslides and mudslides and those who live close to 178 public and private dams that are nearing or have already reached capacity. 

The evacuation orders were issued in response to requests from communities that could be affected by landslides and floods for alternate relocation locations from the government.


"All persons residing contiguous to the dams and water reservoirs are ordered to vacate the said areas immediately and in any case, within 24 Hours effective today, failing which they will be subjected to mandatory evacuation for their safety," said Kindiki in a statement on Thursday.

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The government, in its commitment to the welfare of those affected, will provide temporary shelter, food, and basic supplies. This assurance is aimed at helping them cope during this challenging period. 

The evacuation procedure will also occur between 6:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. to protect residents and response teams. 

To expedite the evacuation process in a timely and compassionate manner, National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs) have been instructed to work closely with county governments, humanitarian organizations, and other stakeholders. 


Moreover, the order also applies to people who live within the 30-meter riparian buffer around all rivers and other bodies of water in the country. For their safety, they are also directed to leave right away, and any illegal settlements in these riparian areas are to be cleared out in accordance with this directive.

The government is urging locals in the impacted areas to play their part in ensuring their safety. Full cooperation with the authorities and adherence to the given instructions are crucial as the evacuation process progresses.