NAIROBI, May 2 (Xinhua) -- As the country is battered by torrential rains, Kenya's Cabinet on Thursday decided to mobilize the nation to implement policies, programs and measures that will mitigate the effects of climate change.
The Cabinet, which convened for the second time this week under the leadership of President William Ruto, acknowledged that climate change is the cause of flooding, mudslides, landslides, and other extreme weather phenomena.
"The Cabinet was briefed on the weather forecast for the next three months, which shows that average to above-average rains will continue in all parts of the country," the presidency said in a statement issued in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.
The meeting deliberated on extra measures to mitigate the devastating effects of flooding, mudslides, and landslides, which have claimed 188 lives across the country.
The heavy rains have also destroyed bridges, roads, and other critical infrastructure across Kenya, including cutting off many areas.
Some schools have been flooded, while others are being occupied by people who have been displaced by mudslides, landslides, and floods.
During the meeting, the Cabinet noted that more citizens who have been affected by floods, mudslides and landslides are increasingly receiving help with food and non-food items from the government, working with other partners.
The Cabinet said flooding is expected in low-lying areas, as are landslides and mudslides.
"Crucially, the coastal region is likely to experience Cyclone Hidaya, which will result in heavy rainfall, large waves, and strong winds that could affect marine activities in the Indian Ocean," the Cabinet said.
The devastating floods are exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the country just as it emerges from the El Nino floods, which occurred in late 2023 when at least 178 people were killed, 242 injured, and thousands displaced. ■
