Djibouti(Mogadishu24)–The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has expressed solidarity with Kenya following severe flash floods that have caused extensive damage across the country, affecting 24 out of 47 counties. The devastating weather events have resulted in significant loss of life, widespread displacement, and destruction of property and infrastructure.

In a statement released today, the IGAD Secretariat highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the affected regions and extended compassion towards the victims. Authorities have been urged to maintain vigilance and adhere strictly to safety and disaster preparedness protocols to prevent further casualties and damage.

The IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC) forecasts continue to show threats of heavy rainfall in central and western Kenya, with similar patterns expected in northern Uganda, southern Ethiopia, and central Somalia. The outlook for May indicates that the eastern parts of the Greater Horn of Africa might experience higher than average rainfall, increasing the risk of floods, especially in the Juba-Shebelle basins and densely populated urban areas.

H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, Executive Secretary of IGAD, conveyed deep sympathies to those impacted and praised the Kenyan Multi-Agency Response Team, led by President William Ruto, for their swift actions, particularly in Nairobi and surrounding counties. Dr. Gebeyehu reaffirmed IGAD’s commitment to enhancing regional collaboration in combating climate change through improved early warning systems and both mitigation and adaptation efforts.

“Working together is our strongest asset in facing these challenges and ensuring a resilient future,” Dr. Gebeyehu stated. IGAD’s ICPAC will continue to provide vital forecasts and advisories to help protect lives and livelihoods in the region.