Governor Kihika’s Visit to Flood-Hit Naivasha Turns Chaotic as Crowd Turns Violent

Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika was evacuated on Thursday evening after violence broke out during a flood relief event in Naivasha’s Kihoto Estate.

Governor Kihika had been visiting the area to assess damage caused by rising water levels in Lake Naivasha and to meet residents displaced by the floods. She toured the submerged estate with senior county officials before addressing affected families and outlining emergency measures, including transport assistance, additional rescue vehicles and the creation of a coordination committee for relief efforts.

Shortly after her speech, a group of unidentified youths reportedly attempted to breach the Governor’s security perimeter. Witnesses said panic spread quickly as the crowd dispersed and police struggled to restore order. During the unrest, a private car and a trailer were set on fire along the nearby Nairobi–Nakuru highway.

Police fired warning shots to disperse the crowd, and the Governor’s convoy was pelted with stones before she was safely escorted from the scene. The incident disrupted what had been a key relief mission in an area severely affected by flooding. County officials report that more than 2,000 residents have already been evacuated from high-risk zones.

Governor Kihika said the county would intensify evacuation efforts by deploying more tippers, lorries, and boats to reach stranded families. She also urged churches and schools to accommodate displaced residents and appealed to local businesses to contribute to ongoing relief operations.

To strengthen coordination, the Governor announced the formation of a committee made up of representatives from the County Government, National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO), and religious leaders. The committee will oversee evacuation logistics, shelter management, and food distribution.

“I have appealed to churches and schools to open their doors to displaced residents,” she said. “We welcome support from companies and corporate partners, and I urge landlords not to raise rent for affected families.”