Nairobi needs a comprehensive review of its drainage systems - Sifuna

Sifuna noted that while multiple factors contributed to the poor drainage systems in the city, lacklustre leadership played a major role. 

“We must do better because you don’t deserve this. For all those who slept on the roads, those counting losses from the flood damage, poleni sana,” he posted on X.

He confirmed that his office had sent teams to assess the situation and provide support where possible.

Sifuna emphasized the need for a more coordinated approach to managing Nairobi’s drainage, stating that temporal and gradual interventions have not effectively addressed the situation. 

“It is obvious that we need a comprehensive review of how the city drains because the piecemeal interventions are not working,” he stated. 

The senator’s remarks come as residents continue to deal with the aftermath of the downpour, which left streets submerged, disrupted transport, and caused significant property damage across Nairobi.

Following the heavy downpour, Nairobi Police Commander George Seda confirmed that ten people died and at least 71 vehicles were trapped or stranded across the city after major roads became impassable due to the floods. 

On his part, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja stated that an emergency response team was deployed to assist in the search and rescue operations. 

All eyes are now on Nairobi’s leadership to see whether they will finally solve the city’s drainage problems or if this will be another case of repeating the same promises after every tragedy without meaningful action.