Church in Kenya Seeking “any form of support” for Thousands amid Floods, Landslides

“We pray that the search for those who are still missing bears fruit,” the Bishops have implored and added, “The agony of missing a loved one is painful to bear moreover during the ravaging floods.”

On Saturday, April 18, Local media reported that flash floods experienced along the border of  Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot counties in the western part of the country, swept away several houses, a market and a police post.  

Some 23 have been reported missing after rivers broke their banks, causing landslides that also rendered roads in the region impassable, Kenya’s Daily Nation newspaper reported.

“It is in difficult times like this we come together as brothers and sisters of the same God to show love, care and solidarity with one another,” Catholic Church leaders stated in their letter of appeal for assistance.

In the letter, the Bishops expressed their appreciation for “the Government’s multi-agency team, led by officers from the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government, for their speedy response and intervention in the Elgeyo Marakwet incidence.”

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However, the Church leaders called on the national and county governments of the affected areas to “immediately allocate adequate resources to address the immediate needs of the affected population.” 

“The Government should intensify the search with the necessary urgency so that families are reunited as they start to reconstruct their lives,” the Bishops appealed and added, “This is important, especially during this period of COVID-19 pandemic, as those rendered homeless become even more vulnerable.” 

“We urge the public to always follow early warning signs and directives to avert loss of lives and properties,” the Bishops appealed and added, “Security starts with an individual and the community.” 

The Prelates assured all the affected individuals “our prayers as well as any other support we are able to provide as you struggle with the challenges of the flooding and landslides.”

“We implore the Lord to give you courage and strength to trust in God for even in these intense moments of suffering; nothing is impossible,” the Bishops concluded.