Government intensifies rescue operations in Marakwet as landslides claim 25 lives

Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes, Geoffrey Ruku, at Chesogoch area in Elgeyo Marakwet county, where several people died in a mudslide tragedy./HANDOUT

The government has stepped up rescue and humanitarian operations in Elgeyo Marakwet County following devastating landslides and flash floods that have claimed at least 25 lives, left dozens missing, and displaced hundreds of residents.

Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Geoffrey Ruku, together with his Interior counterpart Kipchumba Murkomen, on Sunday led a multi-agency team coordinating rescue efforts in the worst-hit areas.

The two assured affected families of the government’s unwavering support until normalcy is restored.

Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes, Geoffrey Ruku, at Chesogoch area in Elgeyo Marakwet county, where several people died in a mudslide tragedy./HANDOUT

Speaking at the Chesogoch area, one of the areas that was worst hit by the mudslide, CS Ruku said that government officials and the disaster response units had pitched camp in the region to oversee the ongoing rescue and recovery mission, emphasising that no effort would be spared to ensure that every affected family receives assistance and that all missing persons are accounted for.

“We will not leave this place until all those who are still missing are found. The government will stand with every family affected by this tragedy,” said Ruku, visibly moved by the scenes of destruction and grief.

Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Geoffrey Ruku, his Interior counterpart Kipchumba Murkomen and  Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wesley Rotich at Chesogoch area in Elgeyo Marakwet county, where several people died in a mudslide tragedy./HANDOUT

The CS announced that victims who lost their homes would immediately be provided with temporary shelters, food supplies, and essential household items. He further announced that the government would settle all medical bills for those hospitalised as a result of the tragedy.

His sentiments were echoed by CS Murkomen, who said the Interior Ministry had mobilised security agencies to assist in rescue operations, restore order, and prevent further loss of life. He noted that the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), the National Police Service, and the Kenya Red Cross were working around the clock in joint efforts to reach cut-off villages.

“We are dealing with a very dynamic situation. Roads have been destroyed, communication disrupted, and access to some areas remains difficult, but our teams are doing everything possible to save lives,” Murkomen said.

Elgeyo Marakwet residents at Chesogoch area in Elgeyo Marakwet county, where several people died in a mudslide tragedy./HANDOUT

Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura confirmed that 25 people had been killed, 29 were still missing, and 21 others were receiving treatment in various hospitals. He noted that emergency response teams were combing through rubble and flooded valleys as families continued searching for their loved ones.

“The search and rescue mission is ongoing. We are hopeful that we can still find survivors. The government is working tirelessly with all agencies on the ground to ensure no one is left behind,” said Mwaura.

He commended the KDF for their critical role in the operation, saying their swift response had saved lives in areas inaccessible to civilian rescuers due to the rugged terrain and heavy flooding.

Mwaura also acknowledged that the disaster had disrupted ongoing national examinations, with several schools either destroyed or converted into temporary evacuation centres. However, he assured the public that the Ministry of Education had put in place emergency measures to ensure candidates in affected areas continue their exams without interruption.

Chesogoch area in Elgeyo Marakwet county, where several people died in a mudslide tragedy./HANDOUT

During his visit to Machember Village, one of the worst-hit areas, CS Ruku announced that the National Youth Service (NYS) had deployed 100 personnel and heavy excavators to boost the search and rescue operation.

He added that military helicopters would be used to deliver food, medical supplies, and other essential items to affected families.

The CS further assured residents that the government would cater for medical and funeral expenses and provide construction materials to help rebuild homes destroyed by the disaster.

“This is a moment for national unity and compassion,” Ruku said, urging Kenyans, humanitarian agencies, and well-wishers to stand in solidarity with the people of Marakwet.