‘We stand with You’: PS Kiptoo condoles with Marakwet East landslide victims

Treasury PS Chris Kiptoo/FILE

Principal Secretary for the National Treasury, Dr Chris Kiptoo, has sent a message of condolence to families affected by the Marakwet East landslide that has claimed several lives and displaced dozens.

In a statement on Saturday, Dr Kiptoo expressed solidarity with the people of Elgeyo Marakwet County, describing the incident as devastating.

“I stand in solidarity with the people of Marakwet East Constituency, Elgeyo Marakwet County, following the devastating landslides that have claimed lives and displaced families,” he said.

He extended his heartfelt condolences to all those affected by the tragedy and praised the swift efforts of emergency responders, local leaders, and residents.

“We sincerely appreciate the swift response of our emergency teams, local leaders, and community members who are working tirelessly to provide assistance and restore normalcy,” Dr Kiptoo stated.

He urged the public to draw lessons from the disaster, noting that it highlights the need for long-term environmental resilience.

“This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the urgent need to strengthen preventive and adaptive measures against such disasters,” he said, calling for greater commitment to tree planting, environmental conservation, and responsible land use.

Dr Kiptoo affirmed that the nation stands united with those affected, sharing in their “grief, strength, and resilience.”

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen on Saturday confirmed that 21 people have died in the Marakwet East landslide disaster, while over 30 others remain unaccounted for.

Speaking on the ongoing rescue mission, CS Murkomen said, “We have paused our search and rescue operations for today. We have confirmed the loss of 21 people to this tragedy, while over 30 people are still unaccounted for as reported by their families.”

He added that 25 people with serious injuries have been airlifted to Eldoret for further medical attention, while those with minor injuries have been attended to locally.

The search and rescue operations are set to resume tomorrow, with teams from the military and police joining local communities and other organisations in the effort.

Murkomen said preparations are underway to supply additional food and non-food relief items to victims, with military and police helicopters on standby to transport the supplies.

He urged residents living near seasonal rivers and landslide-prone areas to move to safer grounds.

“I wish to thank all the organisations, individuals and government agencies, including the county government, for their fast response and cooperation,” CS Murkomen said.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation as efforts to locate missing persons and provide relief to affected families intensify.

''We continue to work in Chesongoch, Elgeyo Marakwet, supporting those affected by the landslide and flash floods. Access remains a challenge, but our teams are on the ground ensuring those injured and displaced receive the help they need," the Kenya Red Cross said on their part.