Mama Rachel Ruto with Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen with the families affected by mudslides in Chesongoch, Elgeyo Marakwet County on November 8, 2025/ OFFICE OF THE FIRST LADY
The tragic landslide in Elgeyo-Marakwet County has, as of November 8, claimed 37 lives, with 11 people still unaccounted for, Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has confirmed.
A total of 32 individuals sustained injuries and were hospitalised, some of whom have since been discharged. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, led by a multi-agency team that includes the military, police, National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs), the county government, and humanitarian organisations.
Displaced residents are currently sheltered at Chesongoch Primary School, where they continue to receive relief and humanitarian assistance from the government and partner agencies.
Plans for the compensation and resettlement of victims to safer areas are underway and will be implemented as soon as possible, CS Murkomen said.
This morning, CS Murkomen, accompanied by First Lady H.E. Mama Rachel Ruto, visited Chesongoch to offer condolences to affected families and assess the devastation. During the visit, they distributed assorted relief items to the victims.
"The First Lady conveyed a message of reassurance to the affected families that H.E. the President will do everything possible to help them rebuild their lives," CS Murkomen said.
The delegation included key government officials and leaders from the region. Cabinet Secretaries Davis Chirchir (Roads and Transport) and Geoffrey Ruku (Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes) joined the visit.
Governors Wisley Rotich of Elgeyo-Marakwet and Stephen Sang of Nandi, along with Deputy Governors Prof. Grace Cheserek (Elgeyo-Marakwet) and Dr. Yulita Cheruiyot (Nandi), were also present.
Local legislators participated, including Senator William Kisang, Elgeyo-Marakwet County MP Caroline Ng’elechei, Kangogo Bowen (Marakwet East), and Adams Kipsanai (Keiyo North). Acting Elgeyo-Marakwet County Commissioner Julius Maiyo and several MCAs were also in attendance.
CS Murkomen said the government remains committed to supporting the affected families, adding that coordination between national and county agencies is key to ensuring timely relief.
"The landslide tragedy in Elgeyo-Marakwet County has claimed 37 lives to date, with 11 people still unaccounted for," he reiterated, highlighting the scale of the disaster and the urgent need for continued rescue efforts.
As search teams continue operations, authorities urge residents in vulnerable areas to remain cautious and report any signs of instability. Humanitarian agencies continue to provide food, shelter, and medical support to those displaced by the disaster.
Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes, Geoffrey Ruku, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting families affected by disasters, including those hit by the recent landslide in Chesongoch, Elgeyo Marakwet County.
