Video: Emotional Moment As Mai Mahiu Residents Ask William Ruto To Pray For Them Before Leaving

• President William Ruto visited the victims of the Mai Mahiu floods in Nakuru county on Tuesday, April 30
• He stated that the government would send a multi-agency rescue operation, that would offer temporary shelter to the victims
• The government attributed the floods to a blocked railway line tunnel obstructing the natural flow of water through River Tongi

The devastating floods in Mai Mahiu have inflicted a profound wound on Nakuru county, resulting in the loss of 71 lives, with 28 individuals still missing, according to government reports.

The floods occurred in the wee hours of Monday, April 29, after the Kijabe River broke its banks and swept away vehicles and people.

President William Ruto paid a courtesy visit to the region's residents on Tuesday, April 30.

While speaking at Ngeya Girls Secondary School in Mai Mahiu, Nakuru county, Ruto stated that the government will send a multi-agency operation to the region.

Residents Ask Ruto to pray

The president never shied away from revealing his spiritual side, and Mai Mahiu residents seemed to be aware of that as they asked him to pray for them.

Ruto let out a hearty laughter upon the request, but still bowed to their demand.

"You said you want me to pray? Right now? Okay let us pray then," Ruto said.

" God we thank you for granting us the opportunity to be here. I pray that you may give grace to the families that were affected by the floods. Also console them. And as the government we pray that you may help us execute our plans for the benefit of Kenyans...We also pray that you may stop the floods," Ruto prayed.

Reactions from netizens

Ruto's video praying sparked alot of reactions from netizens with most of them being moved by the head of state's humility.

Edgar Abwire stated

"Laughing in the middle of a crisis... The best president in Africa! Look at how he's down to earth."

Kiplimo Tenai said.

"You're a down to earth person, on this one you have my applause."

Fun 243 said.

"This prayer chaiiii. That boy close to Mr President more blessings. Most loves President."

Lang'at said.

" Amen."

Oriando Edwin said.

"This is noble Sir. When the children of Israel offended God, King Solomon prayed on behalf of Children of Israel and God listened. God will surely listen to your prayer and answer."

Govt explains what happened in Mai Mahiu

On April 30, Water Cabinet Secretary Zechariah Njeru attributed the incident to a blocked railway line tunnel obstructing the natural flow of water through River Tongi.

He explained that the channel got blocked due to debris, stones, trees, and soil brought about by the heavy downpour in the area, thereby preventing water from flowing through the River Tongi course and its small tributaries from moving downstream.

The CS explained that the river and its tributaries overflowed at high pressure, dislodging the railway line and swiftly flowing downstream, resulting in the observed destruction.

What you need to know about Mai Mahiu floods

• Government offered to pay all medical bills for victims of Mai Mahiu floods.
• Emotions ran high as residents and relatives arrived at the Kenya Red Cross tent to inquire about their kin swept away by floods.
• Video of man carrying dead son from Mai Mahiu floods overwhelms Kenyans.

Proofreading by Asher Omondi, current affairs journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.