Major rivers in the Mt Kenya region have dried up, causing alarm among residents and environmentalists.
The Chania River, which is visible at Blue Post in Thika, and the Rubingaci River at South Ngariama in Kirinyaga county, have both run dry, leaving behind cracked riverbeds and depleted ecosystems.
For the first time in history, the Ruiru River is dried up, some sections of River Sagana can be crossed on foot and River Nyamindi is equally gone.
Rupingazi River in Embu is also dry for the second time in history. The last time it happened was in 2018.
The situation is particularly concerning as both rivers are major sources of water for communities in the region, and their disappearance could have serious implications for agriculture, wildlife, and human settlements.
Environmentalists warn that climate change, deforestation, and human activities such as pollution and water abstraction could be contributing factors to the drying up of the rivers.
The affected communities are already feeling the impact, with reports of water shortages and decreased crop yields.
Local residents have called for urgent intervention to address the situation and mitigate the effects of the drying rivers.
The situation highlights the urgent need for action to address climate change and protect the environment in the Mt Kenya region.
As the world prepares to mark World Water Day on March 22, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preserving our water resources and the devastating consequences of their depletion.
