Residents of Bunyala Busia County have expressed their satisfaction with the government’s ongoing construction of flood protection dykes in the flood-prone Budalang’i area, saying the project is transforming lives and restoring hope to thousands of families.
The residents say the flood control initiative will significantly reduce the devastating effects of seasonal flooding that has for decades displaced families, destroyed homes, farms, schools, and essential infrastructure. They believe the project will provide a safer environment for people to live, invest, and carry out business activities without the constant fear of being forced to flee their homes whenever heavy rains occur.
According to the locals, the improved flood protection will encourage investors to establish businesses in the region, boost agricultural production, and stimulate economic growth by creating a more stable environment for commerce. Farmers also expect increased productivity as they will be able to cultivate their land with greater confidence, knowing that the risk of flood-related losses will be substantially reduced.
The residents commended President William Ruto’s administration for implementing a project that previous governments had promised for many years but failed to complete. They described the ongoing works as a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to addressing long-standing challenges that have affected the people of Budalang’i for decades.
They further noted that the construction project has created employment opportunities for local youth, with many residents securing jobs in various aspects of the construction works. This, they say, has improved household incomes while equipping young people with valuable skills that can benefit them beyond the project’s completion.
Community leaders have also urged the government to ensure the project is completed within the scheduled timeframe and maintained regularly to guarantee its long-term effectiveness. They emphasized that proper maintenance of the dykes will be essential in preventing future flood disasters and protecting public investments.
Budalang’i has long been one of Kenya’s most flood-prone regions due to the overflow of River Nzoia and surrounding water bodies during heavy rainfall seasons. Over the years, repeated flooding has displaced thousands of residents, disrupted learning in schools, damaged roads, destroyed crops, and forced many businesses to shut down temporarily. The recurring disasters have also discouraged investors from establishing enterprises in the area, slowing economic development.
Residents now express optimism that once the flood protection dykes are completed, the region will experience lasting stability, attract new investments, improve agricultural productivity, and open up more economic opportunities. They say the project marks a significant step toward ending decades of suffering caused by recurring floods and creating a more secure and prosperous future for the people of Budalang’i.
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