Abstract: Floods are becoming the most disparaging environmental catastrophe threatening lower Nyando basin, Kisumu County, Kenya. They have serious effects on the social, economic, environmental, physical and psychological wellbeing of people. Knowledge about the economic and social implications of these floods, therefore, formed the basis for this research. The study targeted 384 heads of households, Govt. officials, heads of NGOs, FBOs, as well as CBOs. The research the survey research designs. Simple random technique was used to select the household heads. Both primary and secondary data were sourced using questionnaires, interviews, FGDs; direct observation and document analysis. Descriptive statistics were used in data analysis. Findings reveal that (71.1%) of the respondents were affected by floods. Households were forced to relocate to alternative areas while some households sent their children to stay with relatives. Relationships within the family were also tested by living in temporary accommodation. This, in a way disrupted their pattern of life and social networks. Loss of their furniture and hardware was reported as well as traders suffering great loses due to loss of income generating activities. There was hiking of fare during the flooding season. Concerning meals, households reportedly ate fewer meals per day; some resorted to cheaper foods, while others reduced food portions. The study posits that tangible impacts of floods were more severe than intangible effects. The study concludes that, both government and households recognize the seriousness of the flooding problem and cognize the need to mitigate its impact. Flood warnings and insurance can help mitigate flood impacts.
Keywords: Floods, Households, Impacts, Nyando basin.
Title: Loss and Damage from Flooding In Lower Nyando Basin, Kisumu County, Kenya
Author: Alice Masese, Edward Neyole, Nicholas Ombachi
International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research
ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)
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