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Governor Nathif Jama urges the National Government to divert River Tana waters to arid regions to prevent recurring floods in Garissa and Tana River counties
Garissa Governor Nathif Jama has urged the National Government to find a lasting solution to control the flow of River Tana to prevent flooding in the lower counties. He suggests that some of the river’s water should be diverted to dry areas where it could be put to good use.
Currently, Garissa has not received much rain this season. However, River Tana is starting to swell because of heavy rains in the upstream counties. This situation happens every year, leading to floods in Garissa and Tana River counties.
River Tana originates from Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Mountains, flowing eastward through several counties before emptying into the Indian Ocean at the Tana Delta. Along the way, it is joined by several tributaries, including the Chania, Thiba, Maragua, and Thika rivers.
Over the past two years, flooding has devastated farmers in Garissa and Tana River counties. Many people have lost their lives and property due to the rising water levels. Floods have also damaged infrastructure, including the Garissa-Madogo road, which is still under repair.
Last year alone, at least 20 people lost their lives due to raging floods in Garissa. The situation worsens when major dams along the river—such as Masinga, Kiambere, Kamburu, Gitaru, and Kindaruma—become full. When excess water is released from these dams, it flows downstream, causing massive flooding.
Speaking during the Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations at General Mohamud Grounds in Garissa, Governor Jama expressed frustration over the recurring problem. He emphasized that Garissa has suffered for too long from floods caused by water from other regions.
“Every time there is rain, we suffer because of the water released upstream. We are asking the National Government to step in and find a permanent solution. We cannot continue experiencing the same problem 60 years after independence,” Jama said.
He further criticized the government for failing to take action despite several proposals being made. According to him, a practical solution would be to divert some of the river’s water to the arid northern regions that are in desperate need of water.
Jama’s concerns were echoed by Sheikh Abdillahi Salat, the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM) Secretary for Garissa. He urged residents living near the river to relocate to higher ground to avoid being trapped by the floods. He also supported calls for a long-term solution to the flooding issue.
The people of Garissa continue to suffer from a problem that has persisted for decades. Without proper intervention, they face the constant risk of losing their homes, livelihoods, and even lives to floods. The call for a lasting solution is urgent, and the National Government is expected to take action before the situation worsens further.