At least 37 people have lost their lives in a massive mudslide in Elgeyo Marakwet County, with 11 others still unaccounted for, authorities confirmed.
Emergency teams remain in the field searching for survivors and recovering bodies from the hardest-hit locations.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, in a statement issued on Saturday, November 7, 2025, said the government is coordinating efforts across multiple agencies to support affected families. Nine people injured in the disaster are receiving medical treatment and psychosocial support in hospitals.
“The Government continues to coordinate the multi-agency rescue, recovery, humanitarian support and resettlement efforts in Elgeyo Marakwet County,” Mwaura said. He acknowledged the contributions of local residents and partners who have stepped in to assist during the crisis.
“Yesterday, under the leadership of Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim, donations and food supplies generously mobilised by residents, community groups, and partners, including the Wareng Power House team, were dispatched to the affected families. The Government acknowledges and appreciates this strong display of national solidarity and shared compassion during this difficult time,” he added.
Authorities have cautioned that heavy rainfall will continue over parts of Western Kenya, the Central Highlands, and the Rift Valley, increasing the risk of additional flooding and landslides where the soil is already waterlogged.
Residents are urged to avoid crossing flooded roads, drive cautiously, and stay away from sheltering under trees. Those in waterlogged areas should protect themselves from vector-borne diseases, while people in drier zones should guard against respiratory infections.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has maintained alerts for continued heavy rains as rescue operations contend with steep and unstable terrain. Chesongoch, one of the worst-affected villages, has seen homes swept away, leaving hundreds of families without shelter.
Rescue and relief operations are being carried out by the Kenya Red Cross, the National Police Service, and the Kenya Defence Forces. Blocked roads and unstable slopes continue to slow the delivery of aid and emergency supplies.
Mwaura emphasized that the government remains committed to assisting affected communities.
“The Government remains committed to supporting affected families, sustaining rescue and recovery operations, and coordinating long-term stabilisation and rehabilitation measures in partnership with County Governments, humanitarian organisations, and community stakeholders,” he said.
Residents living in high-risk areas are advised to move to safer locations as the possibility of further mudslides remains high.
