By Shadrack Nyakoe
Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has assured City residents that the County is well prepared for the expected heavy rains.
Speaking in Umama grounds in Komarok, Embakasi Central Constituency during the monthly clean up exercise, Sonko said the County government is ensuring that all drainage systems are unclogged and well maintained before and after the expected heavy downpour.
The metrological department has announced heavy rains will pound the city starting anytime this month.
In the past, several people have died after walls collapsed on them due to flooding.
On Friday, the Sonko administration mapped out areas prone to flooding and directed staff to ensure the drainage is unclogged in these areas.
The areas mapped out are Umoja, Eastleigh, South C, South B, Nairobi West, Lang’ata, Donholm, Roysambu, Kahawa West, Ruai, Utawala, Mukuru, Kibera slums, Kileleshwa, Highrise estate and areas along Outer Ring Road.
Last week, Sonko directed Environment executive Vesca Kangogo and her Transport counterpart Hitan Majevdia to oversee the cleanup.
During the cleanup, Sonko said no lives should be lost once the rains start.
Sonko cautioned residents against illegal dumping of waste along Nairobi River.
He asked residents to ensure Nairobi remains clean and beautiful.
During the event, the local youth complained of unemployment and asked Governor Sonko to help them create income generating activities.
Sonko said he will support them come up with projects such as chicken rearing, entrepreneurship and vocational training centers.
During the event, the Chinese Embassy officicials said the Chinese government will partner with Nairobi City County in the ongoing monthly cleanup exercise.
The Embassy will provide working tools, heavy machinery equipment and trucks.
It was also agreed that Chinese nationals in Nairobi will be assigned regions to clean as well.
Head of the Chinese delegation to the clean up exercise said the Embassy has been impressed by Governor Sonko’s efforts in beautifying the city.