The death toll from the devastating landslide in Marakwet East has risen to 26, as search and rescue operations entered their second day.
Authorities confirmed that 25 people remain unaccounted for, while 26 others are hospitalized after being rescued from the rubble.
Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, who led a high-level government team to the affected areas, said rescue operations were ongoing despite difficult terrain and continued rainfall.
“Search and rescue efforts are still underway. We have recovered more bodies today, bringing the total number of fatalities to 26,” said Murkomen. “Our priority remains saving lives, locating those still missing, and supporting the affected families.”
Murkomen noted that Endo Ward bore the brunt of the tragedy, recording 19 deaths, while Embobut/Embolot Ward lost five residents and Sambirir Ward lost two.
He added that the government had mobilized multiple agencies to assist with recovery and restoration efforts.
“The Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport, Davis Chirchir, is fast-tracking the release of emergency funds to repair damaged roads,” Murkomen stated. “The Energy CS, Opiyo Wandayi, is also deploying a team to restore electricity in affected areas.”
The Interior CS further confirmed that military and police helicopters will remain stationed in the region to respond to emergencies and assist with logistics.
“Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs in the affected wards are continuing to sensitize residents to move to safer grounds,” he said, urging the public to heed evacuation advisories.
Murkomen emphasized that the Ministry of Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes, under CS Geoffrey Kiringa Ruku, will continue coordinating the distribution of humanitarian aid in partnership with the County Government of Elgeyo Marakwet.
“The government will foot hospital bills and funeral costs and assist families to rebuild their lives,” Murkomen affirmed.
Elgeyo Marakwet Governor, Wisley Rotich, commended the national government for swift intervention, revealing that food and relief supplies have been airlifted to the affected areas using military and police helicopters.
“Through our county disaster team, we have airlifted foodstuff to support families and the rescue teams,” Governor Rotich said. “Blankets and mattresses are also being arranged for displaced households.”
The governor expressed gratitude to President Dr. William Samoei Ruto for the timely deployment of resources that have aided rescue and relief efforts.
“We thank H.E. President Ruto most sincerely for placing at our disposal all the support we needed. The resources were critical in saving lives and alleviating the suffering of those affected by this unfortunate incident,” Rotich stated.
By Rennish Okong’o
