Rising Lake Levels Threaten Livelihoods Around Kenya’s Rift Valley

In Kenya’s Rift Valley, rising water levels in lakes such as Nakuru, Naivasha, and Baringo are becoming a serious concern for communities and conservationists alike. Over the past decade, lake levels have risen dramatically, causing severe flooding of farmland, residential areas, and even entire ecosystems.

The cause, experts say, lies in a complex mix of changing rainfall patterns, increased evaporation rates due to global warming, and local land use practices. For local residents, the impact is personal and immediate: thousands of people have lost their homes, farmlands have been submerged, and fisheries—the economic lifeline for many—are under threat. Tourism, which many in the region depend on, is also affected, as some parks and nature reserves are partially flooded.

Environmental groups and scientists are calling for more thorough research to fully understand the phenomenon and prevent future disasters. They are urging the government to develop adaptive measures, including relocation plans for affected communities, restoration of damaged ecosystems, and stronger policies to protect Kenya’s water resources. As these lakes continue to rise, the need for comprehensive, sustainable action becomes increasingly critical for the Rift Valley’s communities and biodiversity.