Fuel Shortage Grips Wajir Amidst Road Disruptions Caused by Heavy Rains

Township – Wajir, a town in Northern Kenya, is grappling with a severe shortage of fuel due to extensive damage to road infrastructure caused by heavy rains. The downpour has rendered the county currently inaccessible by road, leaving residents and businesses in a precarious situation.

Motorists in Wajir are facing a dire predicament as they rush to petrol stations, which have become bustling hubs with worried drivers seeking to secure fuel reserves. The increased demand for fuel is a direct consequence of the town’s isolation, amplifying concerns about the impact on essential services and critical infrastructure.

“The situation is very dire. I’ve been waiting in line for over an hour, and I’m not sure if there will be enough fuel for everyone,” expresses Ahmed Ali, a resident who relies on his taxi for income.

The town heavily relies on fuel-engine-generated electricity, which powers vital facilities such as the Wajir Referral Hospital and other critical infrastructure. The shortage poses a significant threat to the continuous operation of these essential services, raising concerns about the potential consequences for public health and the overall well-being of the community.

“This is more than an inconvenience; it’s going to affect the entire town. Without fuel, we are not just talking about transportation issues but also the functioning of critical facilities,” notes Amina Hussein, a local business owner.

Wajir’s residents and businesses are now grappling with the consequences of disrupted transportation routes and the looming fuel crisis. 

Local authorities have not communicated on plans to address the road damage and facilitate access to the town, recognizing the urgent need to restore normalcy and essential services.

“The impact on our daily lives is enormous. We rely on fuel for everything, from transportation to power supply. The authorities need to act swiftly to resolve this crisis,” urges Fatima Abdi, a concerned resident.

President William Ruto urged to declare the ongoing El Nino rains a national disaster to mobilize the necessary support and resources for effective mitigation.

There are risks of looming communication shutdown in the county due to a shortage of fuel caused by transportation issues.

Fatuma Jehow Abdi, the Woman Representative of Wajir, issued a cautionary statement, emphasizing that the absence of fuel for electricity transformers could plunge the entire county into darkness.