Residents of Kerio Valley are appealing to the government for urgent resettlement to safer regions following the recent devastating landslides that claimed many lives and left hundreds traumatised.
Speaking on behalf of the people of Murkutwo Location, Endo Ward, Cheboi Andrew Kimutai said, “We have been seriously affected. Our homes are no longer safe. On behalf of the people of Murkutwo, I am appealing to the government to consider relocating us to a safer area. This region is not suitable for living.”
Elias Kosgei Kibor, also from Murkutwo Location, shared his personal experience, expressing gratitude for the support received but emphasising the magnitude of the tragedy.
“I have lost neighbours and family members. Landslides should not be taken lightly. If possible, we should be moved to ensure that future generations do not witness what we have gone through,” he said.
Gregory Suter from Reke Sub-location, Murkutwo, recounted a harrowing experience in which he and his son were caught in the mudslide and had to be airlifted to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret.
“Although I did not lose a loved one, this experience has left us deeply affected. We are at a loss and constantly live in fear that it could happen again. We have also lost important documents, including our certificates and ID cards, and need guidance on how to replace them,” he added.
Hellen Mutwol highlighted the persistent fear among residents. “Even when it rains, we live in constant fear of being swept away. Sleeping in our homes is not easy because of this fear,” she said.
The calls for resettlement come as the community grapples with the aftermath of the landslides, which have left many residents traumatised and homeless. Community leaders are urging the government to provide permanent solutions to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
By Rennish Okong’o
