Deputy President Kindiki Calls for Urgent County Preparedness Ahead of Potential El Niño Rains

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has called on county governments to immediately activate disaster preparedness measures in anticipation of the October-December rainy season, amid warnings of a possible El Niño weather event.

Speaking at the 30th Ordinary Session of the Intergovernmental Budget and Economic Council (IBEC) in Karen, Nairobi, Kindiki highlighted regional climate forecasts indicating a heightened chance of El Niño conditions for the remainder of 2026. He cautioned that this could lead to above-average rainfall, flooding, flash floods, landslides, and damage to critical infrastructure.

"We must prepare for the possibility of above-normal rainfall, flooding, flash floods, landslides and disruption of critical infrastructure," Kindiki emphasized.

The National Government has already begun early mitigation efforts, including pre-positioning relief supplies and mapping vulnerable zones prone to flooding, disease outbreaks, displacement, and infrastructure risks. Eighteen counties alongside urban centres such as Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu have been identified as particularly at risk.

Kindiki urged county administrations to complement national efforts by:

• Activating disaster preparedness and response plans
• Clearing and maintaining drainage systems
• Identifying and protecting vulnerable populations
• Pre-positioning essential supplies
• Strengthening emergency response teams
• Coordinating closely with national agencies

He stressed that disaster readiness is a shared responsibility between national and county governments, urging immediate action to safeguard lives, livelihoods, infrastructure, and essential services before the onset of heavy rains.

During the IBEC meeting, Kindiki also reviewed progress made on previous council resolutions. He noted coordinated drought response efforts from July 2025 to April 2026, which included relief food distribution and support for livestock farmers. On healthcare, 46 counties have signed Intergovernmental Partnership Agreements under the National Equipment Service Programme, with medical equipment installed in 41 counties covering 88 health facilities.

Kindiki further reported that Parliament has approved a Sh428 billion equitable share for counties for the 2026/27 financial year, with the National Treasury disbursing all funds despite fiscal challenges. However, he expressed concern over pending bills, warning that accumulated debts undermine service delivery, government credibility, and businesses reliant on government contracts.

He concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening cooperation between national and county governments and improving public financing efficiency. "Our success is measured by what happens beyond this meeting room," Kindiki said, "including timely health services, functional roads and water systems, accessible markets for farmers, a conducive business environment, opportunities for youth, and ultimately improved lives for our citizens."