07/03/2026
Yesterday’s flooding in Nairobi is more than just a natural event — it is a painful reminder of the consequences of poor leadership and lack of long-term planning.
Every time it rains heavily, the same scenes repeat themselves: flooded roads, stranded commuters, damaged businesses, and families putting their lives at risk just to get home. This should not be normal for a major city. Flooding on this scale is often a sign of deeper systemic issues — blocked drainage systems, unplanned development, poor waste management, and weak enforcement of urban planning regulations.
Leadership is not just about responding during a crisis; it is about anticipating problems and putting systems in place to prevent them. A city like Nairobi deserves infrastructure that works, drainage that is maintained, and urban planning that prioritizes the safety and dignity of its residents.
We cannot keep blaming the rain. Rain is natural. What is unnatural is the level of unpreparedness we witness every single year.
It’s time for accountability, better planning, and leadership that puts the well-being of citizens first. Nairobi can do better — but only if those entrusted with responsibility choose to lead with vision and action.
