Torrential Rains Wreak Havoc in Murang’a, Destroy Goods and Displace Families
MURANG’A, Kenya –
Traders, farmers, and residents in Murang’a County are grappling with severe damage and losses after relentless rains battered the region over the weekend. From Friday night, Murang’a town and surrounding areas were drenched in a heavy downpour that led to widespread flooding, infrastructure damage, and a spike in landslide threats.
One of the hardest-hit areas was Mukuyu open-air market, where vendors woke up Sunday morning to find their goods, particularly cereals, submerged and destroyed. Business owners blamed blocked drainage systems caused by unregulated construction for the massive water buildup.
“We’ve lost everything. All our stock has been soaked. This will set us back significantly,” lamented Peter Njuguna, a local trader, calling on the county government to urgently address drainage encroachment.
Blocked Drains Blamed for Market Flooding
Traders pointed fingers at developers who have constructed buildings over manholes and drainage paths, leading to water stagnation and flooding. Residents joined forces with Mukuyu area Chief Adams Kariuki to unblock some of the clogged drains on Sunday morning.
“We are committed to restoring proper drainage and will take action against illegal structures blocking waterways,” Kariuki stated.
Elsewhere in Maragua, farmers suffered a blow as floodwaters swept through farms, destroying crops just days before harvesting. One devastated farmer noted,
“All my vegetables were ready for market. Now everything is gone. This is a major setback.”
Landslides Displace Families in Kangema
In Kangema sub-county, a landslide destroyed a home, forcing the family to evacuate. Local authorities raised alarm over increased risk to other households situated in highland zones, urging residents to move to safer areas.
A landslide also severed the main road connecting Kanyenyaini and Tuthu trading centres, rendering it impassable and disrupting transport and trade in the area.
Murang’a Director of Meteorology, Peter Mutu, issued a weather advisory indicating continued rainfall in the coming days.
“Upper regions of Murang’a will remain at high risk for landslides. Residents in vulnerable zones must remain alert and relocate where necessary,” he warned.
Officials Urged to Act as Climate Impact Intensifies
With businesses and farms incurring serious financial losses, locals are calling for long-term solutions, including enforcing building regulations, rehabilitating drainage systems, and relocating residents living in landslide-prone zones.
The Murang’a County Government is expected to roll out emergency response measures as weather conditions continue to deteriorate.
