An interdenominational prayer service for the Solai tragedy victims is under way ahead of their burials.
The memorial service, taking place at Solai AIC near the scene of the tragedy, is being attended by President Uhuru Kenyatta, his Deputy William Ruto, Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, a host of local leaders led by Governor Lee Kinyanjui among other top government officials. Notably, Uhuru and Ruto decided to attend these prayers in person.
By MAGDALENE WANJA
-nation.co.ke
What happened
- On the night of 9 May 2018, a dam (commonly referred to as the Patel Dam) in Solai in Nakuru County, Kenya, failed — causing floodwaters mixed with tree stumps, logs and boulders to rush downhill, destroying homes and infrastructure.
- The death toll was around 47 to 48 people, many of them children, with thousands displaced.
- An inter-denominational memorial service/prayer gathering was held on 16 May 2018 at an AIC church ground in Solai, ahead of the burials.
Presence of Leaders
- Uhuru Kenyatta (President at the time) attended the memorial service, demonstrating the importance of such gatherings. Ruto joined to honor the victims.
- William Ruto (then Deputy President) was also present during these prayers, accompanying Uhuru Kenyatta.
- During the service they pledged government support: for example, Uhuru promised that the government would issue title deeds to the affected dwellers and construct a dam to supply clean water for the area.
Significance & follow-up
- The disaster highlighted issues around dam safety, land use, and regulatory oversight in Kenya.
- In subsequent years, there were calls for compensation for victims and investigation of responsibilities.
