Death toll in Elgeyo Marakwet landslide hits 37, 11 people still missing

The Elgeyo Marakwet County mudslide has claimed 37 lives, with 11 individuals still missing, the government confirmed.

Rescue operations continue as authorities and humanitarian teams work under difficult conditions to locate survivors and recover the deceased.

Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, in a statement on Saturday, said the response involves multiple agencies and community partners working together to provide relief and support to affected families.

Nine injured victims remain in hospitals, receiving both medical attention and psychosocial care to help them recover from the trauma.

“The Government continues to coordinate the multi-agency rescue, recovery, humanitarian support and resettlement efforts in Elgeyo Marakwet County,” Mwaura said.

He also lauded the role of local communities and organisations in delivering aid promptly to those in need.

“Yesterday (Friday), under the leadership of Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim, donations and food supplies generously mobilised by residents, community groups, and partners, including the Wareng Power House team, were dispatched to the affected families. The Government acknowledges and appreciates this strong display of national solidarity and shared compassion during this difficult time,” he added.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued continued rainfall alerts for Western Kenya, the Rift Valley, and the Central Highlands, warning that saturated soils increase the risk of more landslides and flooding.

Residents have been advised to avoid flooded roads, drive cautiously, and not shelter under trees during storms.

Health officials have also urged precautions against vector-borne diseases in wet areas and respiratory infections in drier regions.

Chesongoch, one of the hardest-hit zones, has experienced widespread destruction, with homes swept away and hundreds of families displaced.

Rescue teams from the Kenya Red Cross, National Police Service, and Kenya Defence Forces are working tirelessly to reach stranded residents, though blocked roads and unstable terrain are slowing aid delivery.

Mwaura emphasised that the government remains committed to assisting affected communities through both immediate relief and long-term rehabilitation.

“The Government remains committed to supporting affected families, sustaining rescue and recovery operations, and coordinating long-term stabilisation and rehabilitation measures in partnership with County Governments, humanitarian organisations, and community stakeholders,” he said.

Residents in high-risk areas are being urged to move to safer locations as the threat of additional mudslides remains.

Other Topics To Read

• Headlines
• National
• Isaac Mwaura
• Elgeyo Marakwet
• Flooding
• Landslides
• Elgeyo Marakwet landslide
• Death toll in Elgeyo Marakwet landslide hits 37
• 11 people still missing

Authorities continue to monitor rainfall patterns closely while supporting ongoing relief and recovery efforts across the county.