The rising waters of Lake Naivasha have displaced over 4,000 families, with fears that the numbers could increase as heavy rains continue. The floods have wreaked havoc in the Kioto area, home to tens of flower farm workers, submerging homes, schools, latrines, churches, and even a police post.
Former Head of the Government Delivery Service (GDS), Peter Mbae, visited the affected estate on Monday, November 3, 2025, and described the situation as a humanitarian crisis. He criticized both the national and county governments for their inaction, giving them a 48-hour ultimatum to intervene. “Failure to act will leave us no choice but to take to the streets,” Mbae warned.
Local leaders are pushing for the government to declare the crisis a national disaster. Nakuru County authorities have begun providing transport for vulnerable families to relocate to neighboring estates, but the efforts are insufficient amid the escalating floods.
Eunice Mureithi, a local leader, noted that some residents legally own land with title deeds, disputing claims they were on riparian land. She highlighted the urgent need for government support, warning of potential disease outbreaks due to submerged latrines. “Schools have closed, and children are returning home to flooded houses. They need immediate assistance to relocate,” she said.
Joyce Ncece, the County Chief Officer for Disaster Management, confirmed that a multi-sectoral team is assisting affected families. “Over 4,000 families have been affected, and we are offering transport to relocate them. Unfortunately, the situation is worsening daily,” she said.
Residents, including flower farm workers like Beth Wamaitha and Mathew Halili, say they are struggling to survive. Many cannot afford to relocate due to rising rents, while some report wildlife, including hippos, straying into their homes. “We are sleeping in flooded houses with no support from the leaders we elected,” said Halili.
As Lake Naivasha’s water levels continue to rise, the call for urgent humanitarian aid grows louder, with local leaders urging swift government action to prevent a deepening crisis.
