Kenya’s President William Ruto is set to address the nation amid increasing pressure to declare the ongoing heavy floods a national disaster.
The announcement was made by State House spokesman Hussein Mohamed, though specifics about the address scheduled for Friday were not provided.
President Ruto is anticipated to discuss the persistent heavy rains, which have claimed the lives of at least 188 individuals since March and displaced hundreds of thousands.
This address follows a cabinet warning indicating the likelihood of a cyclone hitting the coastal region, bringing heavy rainfall, large waves, and strong winds that could disrupt activities in the Indian Ocean.
During its second meeting this week, the cabinet also forecasted continued above-average rainfall across the country.
To mitigate risks, the government has instructed residents near 178 dams and reservoirs to evacuate immediately or face compulsory relocation to safer areas.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga has urged the president to declare the floods a national disaster to facilitate international assistance.
In neighboring Tanzania, where flooding and landslides have claimed the lives of at least 155 people, there is also concern about the impact of Cyclone Hidaya.