Govt Launches Rescue Operations After Deadly Landslides in Elgeyo Marakwet
The government has launched emergency response efforts in Endo, Sambirir, and Embobut wards in Marakwet East Constituency, Elgeyo Marakwet County, following devastating landslides that have claimed lives, destroyed property, and cut off key road networks.
In a statement on November 1, the Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said police and military helicopters have been dispatched to the affected areas, carrying medical personnel and Red Cross staff to support ongoing search and rescue operations.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Endo, Sambirir, and Embobut Wards in Marakwet East Constituency following the devastating landslide that has led to the loss of lives and property, as well as the destruction of infrastructure, including the road network,” Murkomen said.
Govt Launches Rescue Operations in Elgeyo Marakwet
He added that the national and county governments, alongside non-state actors, are coordinating efforts to assist families affected by the tragedy and restore accessibility to the area.
“Efforts are underway to restore the destroyed road network to facilitate movement and access for emergency and relief operations,” the CS noted.
Death Toll Rises to Ten
The death toll from the mudslides in Elgeyo Marakwet County rose to 10 after more bodies were retrieved from the affected areas.
Confirming the incident, Kerio Valley Sub-County Commander Zablon Okoyo said the situation remains dire, with access to the area hampered by heavy rains that have destroyed roads and bridges.
“The incident occurred at around 2 am, and as we speak now, more than 10 people are feared dead. Most of the roads leading to the place are not accessible since they have been cut off by heavy rain that has been raining since the previous night,” said Okoyo.
The Kenya Red Cross Society has deployed teams from Eldoret to support ongoing rescue and relief operations. Officials say several families have been displaced, with the community still reeling from the tragedy.
“We are taking food and other humanitarian assistance to the victims. The challenge we face is accessibility. We will need a helicopter from Nairobi to reach them,” said Abraham Cheruiyot, North Rift Red Cross Coordinator.
Rescue teams, aided by local residents, are continuing the search for missing persons as emergency response efforts intensify amid difficult weather conditions.
