Urban Flooding in the Cities of Kisumu, Mombasa, and Nairobi, Kenya: Causes, Vulnerability Factors, and Management

Abstract

This research investigates the complex urban flooding dynamics of Kisumu together with Mombasa and Nairobi cities in Kenya. Since both human-caused urban growth and climate change effects simultaneously produce more non-absorptive surfaces. conditions have worsened globally. The problem of urban flooding in Africa deepens when countries fail to plan their cities correctly and continue to deteriorate their environments. The recent floods in Kenya have produced catastrophic outcomes which make it vital to implement strong flood management methods that adhere to national climate action plans. Based on environmental justice and urban metabolism theories, this study employed qualitative and descriptive research methods to investigate urban flooding in Kisumu, Mombasa, and Nairobi, Kenya. It relied on purposive sampling to select data sources, including government reports, NGO publications, and academic journals. Primary and secondary data were analyzed through structured data analysis to categorize findings systematically. The research utilized qualitative techniques for in-depth exploration and descriptive methods to explain factual data. An online review of databases spanning a decade ensured data reliability, while expert insights from urban planners and flood management officials enhanced methodological rigour. Experts have proved that economic differences create more exposure to flooding within lower-income neighbourhoods besides failing institutions in planning and communication that heighten risks. The irregular rainfall patterns of global warming create additional stress for urban flood operations. Through the combination of urban metabolism and environmental justice concepts the research study demonstrates how resources get distributed unfairly and environmental risks affect selected populations unequally. The research indicators show the need to merge disaster risk reduction requirements directly into socio-economic urban development programmes. This research demonstrates the need for better community participation alongside improved institutions and sustainable urban development programmes which need to protect urban areas from floods. Future investigations should concentrate on building adaptable urban planning systems which dynamically react to environmental changes and social-economic fluctuations to include every community segment within flood risk approaches. The process requires the examination of advanced technology systems for forecasting floods as well as building community-driven resilience methods to achieve better disaster response control at a local level.