Lake Baringo’s new islands

Lake Baringo burst its banks about a year ago creating several islands that have completely changed the landscape and affected livelihoods in the surrounding areas.

The aftermath is that critical facilities such as schools and hospitals have been cut off and now residents have to use boats to access them.

Kokwa Island, one of the newest islands surrounding Lake Baringo.

Only last year, Lake Baringo’s water levels increased and spilt over to the mainland, covering up the valleys and flat areas, rendering such crucial facilities unusable.

It’s a situation that has disoriented residents who have had to make a lot of adjustments.

Where children used to walk, now they have to take a boat ride. The county government has provided a school boat to ensure the children continue to access the much needed education.

As the waters surged to the mainland, so did the marine life. It’s a treacherous route for the children and all who need to access Kokwa Island.