One year after flash floods swept away lives and homes in Mai Mahiu, dozens of displaced families are still living in uncertainty. Frustrated by broken promises, the victims have now taken their plea to Parliament, urging lawmakers to intervene in their delayed and incomplete resettlement process.
Highlights:
- Over 60 people died in the April 2024 Mai Mahiu flash floods.
- Victims were promised housing and compensation—but remain displaced.
- Affected families have petitioned the Senate to push for action.
- Only 18 out of over 180 families have been resettled so far.
- Rising land prices and stalled government negotiations have delayed progress.
Main Story:
Following the deadly floods in Kamuchiri, Mai Mahiu, the government pledged to resettle affected families, with President William Ruto and other top officials assuring victims that land had been identified and funds allocated. Despite an initial Ksh 300 million earmarked for building homes, most victims remain in limbo.
Led by Nakuru Senator Tabitha Karanja, the victims recently petitioned Parliament to pressure both national and county governments to honour their commitments. They cited unfulfilled promises of housing, land compensation, and basic infrastructure. The petition highlights the mental and economic toll of prolonged displacement.
Initially placed in rented homes through donor support, around 130 families now face eviction after aid ran out. The lack of a permanent solution has left families exposed to poverty, trauma, and instability, with no timeline for when they’ll be properly resettled.
One major setback has been a stalemate between the government and landowners. Land valued at Sh600,000 per acre has spiked to over Sh1.2 million—halting acquisition plans and frustrating victims. Meanwhile, only 18 families have received two-bedroom houses funded by private donors like Rotary and Scann Foundation.
For the victims of Mai Mahiu, the journey to justice and security isn’t over—and their message to Parliament is clear: dignity begins with delivery.
