Uasin Gishu has stepped up preparations to mitigate the effects of El Niño rains, with engineers and county officials clearing drainage systems and repairing key roads.
The exercise involves unclogging and excavating blocked drainage systems, as well as constructing culverts in areas identified as prone to flash floods.
Roads, transport and public works executive Abraham Serem inspected completed and ongoing road projects in Huruma ward, especially within the flood-prone Spain, Shauri, and King’ong’o areas.
Several projects have been completed, while others are underway.
Serem said the county will engage more youth to support the drive.
He was accompanied by Huruma MCA Kimani Wanjohi, director of roads Julius Ronoh, deputy director Linus Yego and principal engineer Kenneth Cherono.
“Significant progress has been realised through the framework contracts programme, and we are working to ensure we cover all areas possible,” Serem said.
Serem said Governor Jonathan Bii has issued strict directives to the department to ensure all flood-prone areas are addressed immediately to avert disasters and ensure the smooth flow of water without the destruction of property.
Wanjohi urged residents to desist from dumping waste and other solid materials into drainage trenches and systems.
“These efforts require support from all of us, including members of the public, so that we effectively deal with the potential effects of heavy rains,” he said.
At the same time, the county department of roads is reviewing the execution of its 2026-27 financial year programmes to strengthen implementation, enhance supervision and ensure prompt payment of contractors who complete works on time.
The review seeks to accelerate Governor Bii’s Pillar Six agenda on infrastructure development.
Since taking office, his administration has graded 4,347km of roads, gravelled over 1,200km and completed more than 30 bridges and box culverts.
Serem said the department delivered 1,300km of grading and 415km of gravelling in 2025-26. He spoke during a meeting with roads engineers.
“We must ensure all earmarked projects are completed within stipulated timelines and identify those ready for commissioning by the governor,” Serem said.
Chief officer Geoffrey Tanui affirmed that all contractors who completed works in 2025-26 will be paid.
“Let us move with speed to identify new roads, establish a clear fuel allocation programme per ward, and review any changes in the Road Maintenance Levy Fund programme,” Tanui said.
Ronoh, his deputy Yego, and a team from the finance department attended the meeting.
