Communities in Elgeyo Marakwet are grappling with loss and uncertainty after a massive mudslide on November 1 claimed 39 lives and left several residents missing. The government has moved to provide safe housing for those affected, aiming to prevent further risk to families living in hazardous areas.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, speaking at the funeral service of eight victims on Wednesday, November 20, 2025, emphasized that the relocation initiative is critical for both immediate relief and long-term safety.
The tragedy has left families and neighbors in mourning, as the scale of destruction has touched almost every household in Embobut and Sambirir. The funeral service saw the caskets of eight victims carried through the village, a somber reminder of lives cut short and hopes shattered.
"Niliskia kijana ameenda, alikuwa mtu mtulivu, alikuwa anaenda shule anafanya mambo yake," said Luka Kimutai, father of one of the young victims.
A close relative, Diana Cheserek, added, "Tumepoteza mtu wa maana sana, alikuwa tegemeo kwa mambo mengi. Tulikuwa tunatumia yeye kuchunga, kuongelesha wenzake," highlighting the central role the deceased played in the family and community.
Eliud Kipruto, uncle of another victim, spoke of the challenges survivors now face. "Hatuna makao, nyumba zetu zilisombwa, hatuna wazazi, tuko tu," he said, capturing the urgent need for shelter and support among families who lost both loved ones and homes.
Residents argue that relocation within Embobut is essential to prevent further tragedies, noting that those previously moved to areas “below the road” were among the hardest hit.
Marakwet Mashariki MP Kangogo Bowen said, "Watu wakatolewa Embobut wakaambiwa waende below the road. Below the road hapa sasa ndio wakafagiwa na hii landslide wote. Lazima tukue na special budget ndiyo tu-address the whole issue of settlement along the escarpment."
CS Murkomen assured the community that authorities are working on a permanent solution for housing in the valley. He urged residents to take personal responsibility for safety and environmental care while government plans are finalized.
"Tuko na process ya kuregularise the below the road… tuangalie vizuri tuone hiyo line ya below the road. We want Embobut under the government of William Ruto, hii sio ingine, ndiyo itapatia watu title deed," he said.
The eight victims will be laid to rest on Thursday at their homes, while funeral services for the remaining 29 are scheduled for Friday. The community continues to cope with grief, while authorities push for resettlement measures to prevent similar disasters in the future.
