The heavy rains and flooding currently being experienced in many parts of the country have had severe adverse effects on business.
One of the most affected sectors is the construction industry where work at many project sites has slowed down significantly or come to a complete stop. A survey by Construction Kenya Showcase in Nairobi and several neighbouring towns including Syokimau, Kitengela and Eastern Bypass area found many suspended construction sites. On some sites, foundations were completely submerged while on others, slab work and shuttering had been abandoned.
Access to construction sites in some areas has also been rendered impossible. A contractor who also offers transport logistics, mainly transport of heavy equipment such as excavators, said he had suspended services temporarily as the catastrophic flooding continues. “If you want to lose your vehicle and equipment, carry on in these circumstances”, he warned.
Delays in construction normally result in added costs and loss of income. When the project is not proceeding as scheduled, it means delays in paying the project team especially where milestones are used as a measure of progress. For casual workers who rely on daily or weekly wages, it means total loss of income when construction is suspended. Building materials suppliers also take a hit as contractors put a halt to purchases.
