Dam Burst in Mai Mahiu Results in 45 Fatalities, Ongoing Rescue Operations

MAI MAHIU – A devastating flood ensued early Monday when a seasonal dam located on the upper slopes of Kijabe burst, leading to the deaths of 45 individuals and extensive damage in the Mai Mahiu region of Naivasha. The incident, which occurred around 3 a.m., surprised local residents, causing widespread destruction to homes and infrastructure.

According to Kenya News Agency, the sudden burst not only resulted in significant loss of life but also left an undetermined impact on the community as rescue operations continue. Governor Kihika detailed that a coordinated effort involving county, national government, and the Kenya Red Cross is underway to search for those still missing and to provide necessary aid. “The full scope of the dam’s burst and the ensuing destruction is yet to be fully assessed,” she stated during a press briefing.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport Kipchumba Murkomen expressed his condolences and underscored the breadth of the tragedy that claimed lives, including children. Murkomen announced that a multiagency rescue operation has been activated, and a team from the Kenya National Highway Authority is working to clear debris that has blocked a critical road and caused significant traffic disruptions.

Head of Kenya Red Cross in the South Rift Region, Felix Maiyo, reported that rescue teams are bracing for the possibility of discovering more victims. He urged the public to assist by reporting any missing persons, which will aid the ongoing rescue and recovery efforts.

Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara described the situation as horrific, noting the combined efforts of government agencies, humanitarian groups, and local volunteers in the evacuation and rescue operations. Nakuru County Chief Officer for Public Health, Joyce Ncece, called for immediate support from national government agencies, including the deployment of National Youth Service personnel to assist with the rescue operations. She also appealed to healthcare workers currently on strike to return to duty to support the overwhelmed local health facilities.

As search and rescue operations progress, the community remains vigilant, with ongoing heavy rains posing additional risks of landslides and further destruction.