Elgeyo Marakwet Landslide: CS Murkomen Eulogises Victims, Pledges Long-Term Action

 

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the families of Mama Albina Ngeringwony Kipkosgei and her grandson Amon Kiprono, who were laid to rest today in Kipkenda Village, Keiyo North, following the tragic landslide on 2 November.

Speaking at the funeral, Murkomen described Mama Albina as a “woman of immense generosity” whose warmth held the family and community together. He said Amon, still young and full of promise, symbolised dreams that were abruptly and cruelly cut short.

“As we mourn this heartbreaking loss,” the CS said, “the government stands firmly with the families. We care, and we remain in prayer and support during this deeply painful time.”

His message comes amidst growing grief: the landslide triggered by heavy rains has claimed 39 lives, according to recent reports, and prompted a national outpouring of sympathy.

Murkomen reassured the bereaved that the government is not only focused on immediate relief but also on long-term solutions to prevent such tragedies in the future. In collaboration with national and county authorities, agencies are already coordinating efforts to resettle affected families, reconstruct livelihoods, and reinforce environmental resilience.

He blamed years of deforestation and unsustainable farming practices—especially the cultivation of crops ill-suited for steep terrain—for exacerbating the disaster. Murkomen urged residents in high-risk zones to heed danger warnings and relocate to safer grounds as rain continues.

In addition to relocation, the government has deployed multi-agency teams — including military, police, Kenya Red Cross, and National Government Administration Officers — to lead rescue, relief, and recovery operations. Psychological support services are also being rolled out for survivors and grieving families.

Addressing concerns about rebuilding, Murkomen pledged swift and transparent compensation for victims. He said the process, mandated by the President, will be fast-tracked and completed within one to two months. He warned against fraudulent claims and vowed that the government would closely monitor resettlement plans to ensure fairness.

Murkomen also emphasized environmental restoration as a core part of the long-term strategy. He urged the community to shift toward more sustainable crops, such as tea, which he argued are less damaging than maize or millet on fragile hillsides.