The death toll from the devastating landslides that struck Chesongoch in Kerio Valley, Elgeyo-Marakwet County, has risen to 21, authorities have confirmed.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said that at least 25 people with serious injuries have been airlifted to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret for specialized treatment, while others with minor injuries were treated locally.
Rescue operations are still underway, with around 30 people reported missing following the tragedy that occurred early Saturday morning after heavy rains triggered multiple landslides, sweeping away homes and cutting off roads.
A joint rescue team comprising the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), National Police Service, and Kenya Red Cross Society has managed to save several survivors, who are receiving care at MTRH, Chesongoch Mission Hospital, and other nearby facilities.
Government agencies and humanitarian organizations have mobilized resources to support the ongoing rescue and relief efforts.
Military and police helicopters have been deployed to evacuate residents trapped in affected areas and to transport the injured to safety.
Meanwhile, transport in the region has been paralysed, with key roads rendered impassable due to flooding and mudslides. Authorities have urged residents to avoid travel until water levels subside and the area is deemed safe.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning of continued heavy rainfall and thunderstorms over the weekend across Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, Homa Bay, Murang’a, Nairobi, and several other parts of the country, heightening the risk of further landslides and flash floods.
