The death toll from the deadly landslides in Chesongoch, Elgeyo Marakwet County, has climbed to 26 after four more bodies were recovered on Saturday. Authorities confirmed that emergency teams are still conducting search and rescue operations as the region struggles to recover from Friday night’s torrential rains that triggered the disaster.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen stated that evacuation efforts are underway to relocate families from high-risk areas to safer locations. He assured residents that the government is fully mobilized to support affected communities as relief operations continue.
How is the government responding to the Chesongoch landslide?
CS Murkomen, speaking at the scene during the second day of rescue operations, praised the coordinated efforts of the Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service, and the Kenya Red Cross Society. “The government is working closely with all relevant agencies to ensure that rescue, relief, and evacuation efforts continue smoothly,” he stated.
He added that food and essential humanitarian supplies have already reached displaced families as teams work around the clock to locate survivors and restore basic services. Murkomen emphasized that the government remains committed to ensuring that those affected receive immediate assistance, while efforts to prevent further tragedy continue.
What measures are being taken for residents in high-risk zones?
Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Stephen Sang confirmed that county officials are working hand in hand with national agencies to relocate residents from vulnerable areas. He noted that meteorological reports warn of continued rainfall, which could worsen the situation if preventive measures are not taken quickly.
The Chesongoch landslides have left a path of destruction across the Kerio Valley region, where several homes were buried and livelihoods destroyed. Rescue teams remain on high alert, racing against time and challenging weather conditions to reach those still unaccounted for. The tragedy has plunged families into grief, while the nation watches closely as recovery and relief efforts continue across the devastated landscape.
By Modester Nasimiyu
