Murkomen: Helicopters deployed in Elgeyo Marakwet following devastating landslides

Elgeyo Marakwet County has been hit by devastating landslides in Endo, Sambirir, and Embobut Wards, leading to loss of lives, destruction of property, and damage to infrastructure, including roads.

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 deployed police and military helicopters with medical personnel and Red Cross staff to assist in the ongoing search and rescue operations.

CS Murkomen added that the government is working closely with the county administration and non-state actors to support affected families.

“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,” he said.

Efforts are also underway to restore damaged roads to allow for movement and access for emergency and relief operations.

The death toll from mudslides in Kerio Valley, Elgeyo Marakwet, has risen to over 20, including at least 17 confirmed bodies recovered, with dozens more still missing.

Paul Yatich, MCA for Embobut area, reported that six bodies were recovered from his constituency, while another 11 were found elsewhere in Kerio Valley.

Many residents remain marooned in affected areas, awaiting rescue.

The region has been rendered largely inaccessible due to heavy flooding, and security teams are searching for viable land routes to bring in additional rescue personnel.

Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich said the county government is coordinating with the national government to manage the situation.

He expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and urged residents to assist those affected.

Counties in the region have been mobilised to help manage the disaster, with ambulances from all areas headed to Elgeyo Marakwet.

Medical staff at Moi Referral Hospital and other hospitals in Eldoret are on standby to receive those injured.

Rotich said all governors in the region are helping to coordinate aid to the area

MCA Yatich described the incident as shocking.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic landslide that struck several parts of Marwet East, triggered by ongoing heavy rains,” he said.

He added that roads in the area are completely damaged and impassable.

“I am appealing to families residing in landslide-prone areas to move to safer ground and exercise caution when crossing flooded rivers and streams," Yatich said.