Mai Mahiu-Naivasha Road Declared Impassable After Deadly Floods

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has declared the Mai Mahiu route impassable and advised motorists to use alternative routes due to floods.

The travel advisory was issued on April 29, 2024, following the Kijabe dam burst, causing severe flooding in Mai Mahiu, Nakuru County. Heavy rains in the catchment areas of Kinale and Kijabe have led to water courses upsurging, washing away debris and several houses.

The road sections are now impassable, with traffic at a standstill around the Mai Mahiu center. KeNHA advised motorists to plan their routes accordingly and exercise caution when travelling through the affected areas.

Part of the Mai-Mahiu road destroyed by floods.

The Kijabe dam tragedy was caused by ongoing heavy rains in the country. A multi-agency team, including police officers, Nakuru County disaster management unit, and Kenya Red Cross, is leading the rescue operation in Mai Mahiu.

102 flood victims were rescued and rushed to various hospitals in Naivasha for treatment. Naivasha police commander Stephen Kirui confirmed the tragedy, noting that the death toll may rise as the rescue operation continues.