Boat Operators in Garissa Capitalize on Flood-Induced Demand

GARISSA—Boat owners in Garissa and the neighboring town of Madogo are experiencing a surge in profits as they transport stranded passengers across flood-impacted areas. With the main road stretch between Madogo and Garissa compromised by flooding, these boats, typically used for rescue missions on the River Tana, are now charging passengers significantly to cross the disrupted four-kilometer route.

According to Kenya News Agency, Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) traveling from Nairobi to Garissa and Wajir are terminating their routes in Madogo, where passengers are required to use boats to reach Garissa and then catch other buses to continue their journeys. Similarly, those traveling from Garissa to Nairobi must take boats to reach buses in Madogo that will take them onward.

Additionally, supply lorries destined for Wajir and Mandera counties are rerouting through Embu to access the Meru – Isiolo – Modogashe road as an alternative. Residents have voiced their frustration over the prolonged road repairs, which have been ongoing since last December. They are urging the government to expedite the roadwork to alleviate the transportation challenges.

One Madogo resident highlighted the economic burden posed by the current transport costs, stating, “We are hustlers and all the people here who work in Garissa Town cannot afford to pay Sh1500 to go to work for Sh500 a day. This is not ideal for us and we want the government to move with speed and repair this road so that we can put this mess to an end when the rains come.” Another resident lamented the drastic increase in transport costs compared to normal days, emphasizing the financial strain on the local commuters.