Solai

Solai is a town in Nakuru County, Kenya. It lies in the highlands of the Great Rift Valley and is part of Kenya’s agricultural heartland. The town functions as a local hub for farming communities, with dairying, crop production, and small-scale trade contributing to the economy. The surrounding area supports a mix of smallholder farming and livestock keeping, and residents often rely on road networks to connect with nearby towns and markets.

In May 2018, a privately owned earth dam near Solai breached during periods of heavy rainfall, releasing floodwaters that affected Solai and nearby communities. The disaster caused significant loss of life and property, with dozens of people reported killed and hundreds displaced. Emergency response involved national and local authorities, the Kenya Red Cross Society, and other humanitarian organizations. The event prompted investigations into dam safety and accountability, as well as broader discussions about risk management and water infrastructure in the region. Relief, rescue, and rehabilitation efforts continued in the aftermath.

Since the disaster, Solai has undergone reconstruction and development initiatives aimed at improving housing, infrastructure, and access to services for residents. The recovery process has involved government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and community groups working to enhance resilience and disaster preparedness, while the local economy remains rooted in agriculture and related activities. The town continues to be part of the broader Nakuru County landscape, with ongoing efforts to balance growth, safety, and sustainable livelihoods for its residents.