At Least 21 Killed in Elgeyo Marakwet Landslide as Heavy Rains Batter North Rift Region

 

By Emmaculate Cheruto 

At least 21 people have been confirmed dead and more than 100 homes destroyed after a devastating landslide struck Chesongoch in Elgeyo Marakwet County overnight, following days of heavy rainfall across Kenya’s North Rift region.

According to officials, the landslide occurred in the hilly areas of Chesongoch, which have been lashed by torrential rains during the country’s ongoing short rainy season. The deluge triggered massive mudslides and flash floods that swept through several villages, leaving a trail of destruction.

Cabinet Secretary for Interior, Kipchumba Murkomen, said in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) that 25 people with serious injuries have been airlifted to Eldoret for medical attention, while at least 30 others remain missing.

“Preparations to supply more food and non-food relief items to the victims are underway. Military and police choppers are on standby to transport the items,” Murkomen stated.
“Rescue operations will resume on Sunday with the help of the military and police.”

The Kenya Red Cross Society shared aerial images showing vast stretches of mudslides and widespread flooding across the affected region. The humanitarian organization said it is working closely with government agencies to coordinate rescue and evacuation efforts.

“Access to some of the affected areas remains extremely difficult due to flooding and blocked routes,” the Red Cross said in its statement.

Residents have been urged to move to safer ground as authorities warn of continued heavy rainfall that could trigger further landslides and flooding in the coming days.

Chesongoch is one of the most landslide-prone areas in Elgeyo Marakwet. The region has witnessed similar disasters in the past — including deadly landslides in 2010 and 2012, and severe flooding in 2020, which washed away a shopping centre.

Government and humanitarian agencies are now racing against time to locate missing persons, provide emergency relief, and prevent further loss of life as rains continue to pound the North Rift region.

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