Rescue efforts continue in Elgeyo Marakwet County after deadly mudslides swept through several villages in the early hours of the morning, claiming the lives of at least ten people.
The Government has mobilized police and military helicopters carrying medical personnel and Red Cross teams to support ongoing search and rescue operations.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen expressed his condolences, saying, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Endo, Sambirir, and Embobut Wards in Marakwet East Constituency following the devastating landslide that has led to the loss of lives and property, as well as the destruction of infrastructure, including the road network.
The Government has dispatched police and military helicopters carrying medical personnel and Red Cross staff to assist in the ongoing search and rescue operations.
“ We are working with the County Government and non-state actors to respond to this unfortunate incident and provide the necessary support to the affected families. Efforts are underway to restore the destroyed road network to facilitate movement and access for emergency and relief operations.”
Police and rescue teams are focusing on Chesongoch and nearby areas, where heavy rains caused parts of the upper region to collapse at around 2 a.m., sending mud and debris through several homes.
Area police commander Zablon Okoyo reported that about ten bodies have been recovered so far, but more people remain missing.
“We have many security and rescue teams working to ensure that residents receive the help they need,” Okoyo said.
Several residents were injured and are being airlifted to hospitals in Eldoret for treatment. Patients at Chesongoch Mission Hospital were evacuated after floodwaters inundated the facility and were moved to safer locations.
The disaster has disrupted transport across the region, with authorities warning residents to avoid travel until roads are cleared and conditions improve.
Mudslides, also known as landslides or mudflows, occur when soil and debris on steep slopes become saturated with water and slide downhill.
Heavy or prolonged rainfall, loss of vegetation, earthquakes, volcanic activity, or human activities such as construction or poor drainage can trigger these events.
Mudslides are most likely during periods of intense rain, rapid snowmelt, or following natural disasters that destabilize the ground.
Authorities continue to coordinate relief efforts with the county government and non-governmental organizations to provide emergency support, restore vital infrastructure, and prevent further loss of life in the affected communities.
