Scores of people have been killed and thousands made homeless in Kenya over the last week after heavier than usual seasonal rains devastated much of the country.
The western half of Kenya has been most affected, with police reports putting the death toll at 23 - most of whom were killed by drowning. Some 6,000 people have also been displaced in Budalang'i area, part of Nambale Diocese. The Anglican Church of Kenya in Nambale is assisting and more than 1,000 families have been put up in temporary shelters in three different camps.
The Diocesan Accountant, Mr Joel Rajula, said the River Nzoia had burst its banks earlier in the week causing massive flooding in the area, adding that residents had moved to higher ground though many of them had lost property and livestock.
The diocese is receiving relief support from the Anglican Church of Kenya's provincial office, the National Christian Council of Kenya and the Red Cross, among other well wishers. He said, however, that the relief was not enough and appealed for more food and medical supplies to assist affected families.
Schools have closed in the diocese because of flooding in classrooms and school compounds. Elsewhere, commuters and motorists in various parts of the country have been stranded after the torrential rains washed away bridges and roads.
However, the meteorological department has offered some good news by announcing that the heavy rains will subside in a week or so. Support may be channelled through the Anglican Church of Kenya.
Article By Justus Waimiri in Nairobi