Jane Kihara : Kenya Flood Victims Tribute: Dam Burst Tragedy

By | May 9, 2024

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Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Kenya dam burst tribute
2. Flood victims memorial Kenya

Thousands of people gathered on Thursday to pay tribute to the 61 victims of a deadly dam rupture in central Kenya caused by heavy rains. The incident near Mai Mahiu, in the Rift Valley, was the deadliest in a rainy season that has claimed 257 lives and displaced 55,000 households since March. The disaster occurred on April 29 when the dam burst, leading to devastating floods that destroyed homes and took many lives. The community came together to honor the victims, with portraits displayed and speeches given by religious and political leaders. The government has warned of further heavy rains and flooding in several counties.

1. Kenya mourns victims of dam disaster
2. Tribute to flood victims in Kenya

The small village of Kamuchiri in central Kenya was struck by a devastating tragedy on April 29th, when a makeshift dam ruptured following heavy rains. The resulting deluge of water and mud washed away homes and claimed the lives of 61 people, making it the deadliest single incident in a rainy season that has brought turmoil to the East African nation.

Tributes poured in on Thursday as thousands of people gathered in Mai Mahiu, a few kilometers from the scene of the disaster, to honour the victims. Under a large tent, portraits of the deceased, including many children, were displayed alongside flowers and candles. The emotional crowd listened to speeches by religious and political leaders, offering condolences and solidarity to those affected by the tragedy.

The heavy rains that led to the dam’s rupture have wreaked havoc across Kenya, with 257 lives lost and almost 55,000 households displaced since March. The government has issued warnings of further flooding, particularly in areas surrounding Lake Victoria and Lake Baringo. Additionally, the authorities have identified 192 high-risk dams, with populations near 178 of them already evacuated to prevent potential disasters.

The rainy season has not only affected Kenya but also other East African countries, with at least 475 people losing their lives in Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, Ethiopia, and Somalia. The El Nino weather pattern has exacerbated the situation, leading to widespread devastation and loss of life in the region.

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As the region grapples with the aftermath of these natural disasters, communities come together to mourn the lives lost and support those affected. The resilience and unity shown in times of crisis highlight the strength and compassion of the people of East Africa. Let us continue to stand in solidarity with those facing adversity and work towards building a more resilient future for all.