The rains that have rocked Nairobi and other parts of the country in recent days can be looked as both a blessing and a curse.
Consumer comfort depends a great deal on the amount of rainfall this country receives through the year. Food production and electricity generation in Kenya depends majorly on water where in this case both Agriculture and hydro electricity is rain fed.
At the moment, the country is facing an acute milk shortage with a liter retailing for up to Shs 100 in some places up from Shs 60 in March. This is attributed to the long drought spells that hit the country last year with livestock having inadequate feeds and water.
But that is set to change with the heavy and evenly distributed rainfall pattern hitting the region currently. Consumers should expect abundance of milk in a months’ time. The cost of electricity is expected to fall due to levels of water in the dams rising to full capacity thanks to the heavy rains. Water reservoirs and dams have also been filled to capacity, according to reports and City residents should expect running water in their taps without disruption.
However, the rains have proved to be costly in one way or two. Nairobi residents for instance were treated to unpleasant experiences last week when they had to spend hours in traffic in midweek. Commuters were forced to pay fares of up to Shs 300 from Shs 80 to Rongai and Athi River. Most people arrived home Wednesday well past midnight even after being charged exorbitant fares.
In some city slums, houses were swept away in flash floods with one person being reported to have lost his life. This is going to be a costly affair for the displaced families as they did not anticipate the losses that the rain has caused them.
Apart from carrying an umbrella in this season, carry a little extra cash with you to take care of the surprises rain throws your side and follow safety instruction given by authorities. It might save you costs in terms of medical bills and also save your life. Condolences to families and friends of those who lost their lives in Hell’s Gate flash floods tragedy.