By Adan Mohamed - Reporter
April 20, 2026 - The onset of the March–April–May rains in the northern region has brought both relief and destruction, as heavy downpours continue to pound the area, leaving major roads in and out of Mandera Town completely damaged and impassable.
These roads are vital lifelines for residents, serving as key routes for transport, trade, and access to essential services. Their destruction has severely disrupted daily life, leaving communities stranded and cutting off the supply of food, medical services, and other essential goods.
Days of heavy rainfall have left key access routes flooded and muddy, making it impossible for vehicles to move in or out of the town.
The main affected roads include the Mandera–Rhamu road, Mandera–Libihia road, and Mandera–Khalalio road.
The roads are intersected by a seasonal river, which, once it rains, is completely swept by strong flows, rendering them impassable and severely hindering transportation and access to essential services.
Transport operators along the Mandera–Rhamu road say they have been forced to suspend operations as vehicles get stuck or risk damage on the deteriorated roads.
“All routes are blocked. We cannot access Mandera Town, and this is affecting both passengers and goods,” said one local driver.
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The Mandera–Khalalio sub-county road, the only route connecting the area, has been completely swept away by floodwaters, leaving residents cut off.
Locals say the situation is unacceptable and are calling for urgent intervention, including the construction of proper bridges along these roads to ensure reliable access during the rainy season.
Residents are now beginning to feel the impact, with concerns emerging over shortages of basic commodities and rising prices due to supply disruptions.
The seasonal rains, while vital for replenishing water sources and supporting livelihoods, continue to expose the vulnerability of transport networks in northern Kenya.
As the rains persist, Mandera Town remains largely cut off, highlighting the need for durable and all-weather roads to ensure reliable connectivity throughout the year.