Somalia to Kenya: We stand with you during this difficult time

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Federal Republic of Somalia has penned a heartfelt message to the people of Kenya, following devastating floods and mudslides which have left dozens of people dead and thousands displaced in different parts of the country.

In a message, Somalia expressed 'heartfelt condolences' to families affected by the floods, noting Sunday's horrific incident in Mai Mahiu, about 70 kilometers from Nairobi, where a blocked tunnel broke loose, causing heavy downpour of torrential water downhill.

Over 40 bodies mostly of women and children were collected with the government intensifying rescue operations. There was no dam as earlier reported, with witnesses pointing a finger at the blocked tunnel in the old railway line near Kijabe center.

"Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and all those affected by this natural disaster. We stand with Kenya during this difficult time, offering our support and solidarity as the nation recovers and rebuilds," read the statement.

"Our prayers are with the affected communities for strength and resilience in the face of such loss and destruction," added the government of Somalia, a sisterly nation that has traditionally battled these calamities.

The government of Kenya is responding to such emergencies countrywide, with over 30 other people feared dead along River Tana near Garissa, where a boat capsized when trying to ferry passengers, mostly teachers and students across the swollen river.

President William Ruto said the government has mobilized enough resources to handle the emergencies while insisting that 'those of you in Lower grounds should move to safer areas to avoid such impending dangers'.

On Tuesday, a cabinet meeting was summoned to come up with mitigation measures, with the government threatening to arrest those crossing swollen rivers. Other regions affected include the capital Nairobi and areas surrounding Lake Victoria.

GAROWE ONLINE