Landslides are one of the most devastating natural disasters, causing immeasurable loss of life and property. One such calamity that shook Kenya was the landslide in Kiganjo, a tragedy borne from the incessant rainfall in the country.
Nancy Odindo, a seasoned journalist with over three years of experience in digital and print media, covered the incident extensively. This article collates her insights along with information from other sources to present a comprehensive report of the event.
The Unfortunate Incident
On the 29th of April, 2024, the tranquil village of Kiganjo, located in Gitugi area of Mathioya Constituency, was struck by a disastrous landslide. The calamity claimed at least four lives and rendered two individuals missing. In a heart-wrenching turn of events, families found themselves buried under the debris of their own homes, with their livestock also falling victim to the catastrophe.
What Caused the Landslide in Kiganjo?
The calamity was a direct result of the brutal downpour that had weakened the structural integrity of the houses, leading to their eventual collapse.
The relentless rain had saturated the ground, increasing its weight and reducing its stability. When the soil's ability to absorb water was exceeded, it resulted in a destructive landslide, sweeping away everything in its path.
The Rescue Operation
In the face of such a disaster, swift and coordinated action was required. A prompt response team, comprising members from the Murang’a regional government and the Kenya Red Cross, launched a rescue operation at the disaster site.
The team managed to rescue two survivors from the debris, who were immediately rushed to a medical facility for emergency treatment. Their rescue underscored the urgent and critical nature of the situation.
The Aftermath
The landslide in Kenya had a profound impact, not only on the victims but also on the surrounding communities. The rescue operations continued for days, with search teams looking for the missing individuals and the livestock that were buried alive.
The government, along with non-profit organizations, provided aid to the affected families in the form of food, water, shelter, and medical assistance. However, the emotional trauma from the loss of loved ones and homes was a burden that the victims had to bear on their own.
Other Incidents
The landslide in Kiganjo was not an isolated incident. The continuous rainfall had caused numerous other landslides and floods across the country. A mother and her child were swept away by floods in Sindo town, and the Old Kijabe dam burst, resulting in the death of 20 people.
The Bigger Picture: Climate Change
The increasing incidence of such natural disasters points to a larger, more concerning issue – climate change. The drastic shifts in weather patterns and increased rainfall are a direct consequence of global warming. Such calamities serve as a potent reminder of the urgent need for climate action.
What Needs to be Done?
Preventing landslides entirely may not be possible, but their impact can be significantly reduced through early warning systems, better planning and construction practices, and public education on disaster response. Additionally, addressing climate change at a macro level can help in mitigating such disasters in the future.
Conclusion
The landslide in Kenya was a tragic event, causing immense loss and suffering. However, it also served as a reminder of the strength and resilience of the Kenyan people. The swift and efficient response of the rescue teams and the support provided by the community are testament to the indomitable spirit of humanity even in the face of adversity.