Devastating Landslides Strike Elgeyo Marakwet County, Leaders Mobilize Aid and Rescue Efforts

 Tragedy has struck Elgeyo Marakwet County as deadly landslides and flooding triggered by heavy rains have caused widespread devastation across the region. The affected areas of Korou, Chesongoch, and Kabetwa in Marakwet East have been left reeling, with numerous fatalities, displaced families, and massive destruction of infrastructure, including vital road networks.

The heavy rains caused rivers Enoow and Embolot to overflow, leading to the catastrophic landslides that swept away homes, roads, and livelihoods. Emergency response teams, local leaders, and neighboring counties have mobilized quickly to provide support and aid to the affected communities.

Governor Wisley Rotich Leads Response Efforts

Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich, who has been at the forefront of the emergency response, assured residents that help was on the way. "With the support of Waziri Kipchumba Murkomen and Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Khariri, we have choppers en route to evacuate the injured. These helicopters will arrive in the next few minutes, transporting victims who are being stabilized by health teams on the ground, accompanied by Red Cross paramedics," Rotich said in a statement.

Governor Rotich also confirmed that ambulances had been dispatched via Sigor due to the damaged roads. "All our roads are cut off, but we are doing everything possible to ensure that emergency services can reach those in need. We have also mobilized heavy machinery through Governor Chelilim to assist with clearing the roads," he added.

The Governor emphasized that the entire county government, including all county executives, is working tirelessly to coordinate the airlifting of food and non-food items once all patients have been evacuated. The CEO of the MTRH (Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital) is on standby with a medical team to provide necessary assistance.

Solidarity from Neighboring Counties

The neighboring counties of Uasin Gishu and Nandi have expressed their solidarity with Elgeyo Marakwet, offering both emotional support and resources to assist in the crisis.

Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii expressed his condolences and pledged support: "Our hearts go out to the people of Elgeyo Marakwet County following the tragic landslides and flooding that have struck Korou, Chesongoch, and Kabetwa. The heavy rains have caused rivers to overflow, displacing families and claiming lives. As members of the North Rift Economic Bloc (NOREB), we stand in solidarity with the County Government and the resilient people of Elgeyo Marakwet. Our emergency teams are on the ground, and ambulances are on standby at the Eldoret airstrip to provide medical assistance."

Similarly, Nandi Governor Stephen Sang conveyed his deep sorrow and pledged support: "We are deeply saddened by the devastating landslides that struck Korou, Chesongoch, and Kabetwa areas of Marakwet East. On behalf of the people and Government of Nandi County, I extend heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and all those affected. We stand in solidarity with Elgeyo Marakwet during this difficult time, and we commend the ongoing rescue efforts by national and county teams. We pray that the Almighty God grants comfort and strength to those affected as they rebuild their lives."

Rescue and Relief Efforts Intensify

National and local teams are working tirelessly to search for survivors and provide emergency medical care to the injured. In addition to the aerial support from the Kenya Defence Forces, medical personnel and Red Cross volunteers are actively involved in stabilizing the injured and coordinating evacuations.

The damage to roads, particularly in the most remote areas, has made the delivery of aid more challenging, but efforts are underway to restore vital routes for the transport of relief supplies and equipment. The local administration is also working with community members to provide immediate shelter, food, and water to displaced families.

As of now, rescue teams continue their efforts, with more helicopters and emergency vehicles expected to arrive shortly. The national government has assured that resources are being directed to the region to ensure a swift recovery.

Governor Rotich concluded, “The road ahead will be tough, but we will not rest until all those affected are assisted. Together with our neighbors and partners, we will rebuild, recover, and support our people in this difficult time.”

Further updates on the situation will be provided as the search and rescue efforts continue.