Flood Crisis Response: Eric Omondi Launches Boat Rescue Plan in Nairobi

Amid ongoing floods in Nairobi, comedian-activist Eric Omondi has launched a bold rescue idea, deploying a boat service to assist residents trapped in rising waters.

The move follows a warning from the Kenya Meteorological Department, which projected continued heavy rainfall between March 17 and March 23 across several parts of the country. In the capital, the effects have already been severe. Roads have turned into rivers, vehicles have been swept away and families have been left stranded for hours as water levels surge.

In a video shared online, Omondi unveiled his “Sisi Kwa Sisi” concept while aboard a small white boat, positioning it as a quick-response solution during flood emergencies. He emphasized that delayed rescues have been a major factor in recent fatalities.

“So we learnt that most people who died in the Nairobi floods did not die instantly. They were stuck for hours, meaning they could have been saved,” he said. “In case of any emergencies during floods in Nairobi, you can now call Sisi Kwa Sisi boat emergency.”

He also showcased reflective safety jackets, saying they would help protect and identify those being rescued. The idea, he noted, is to offer immediate help in areas where official response teams may take longer to reach.

The plan has sparked mixed reactions. Some Kenyans praised the initiative as timely and innovative, especially as flooding continues to expose gaps in emergency response. Others questioned whether a single boat could realistically serve the scale of need across the city.

Still, the conversation has shifted. As rains persist and risks grow, Omondi’s plan has highlighted the urgent need for faster, more accessible rescue systems and the role individuals can play in times of crisis.