Kenya Landslides: 21 Dead, Over 1,000 Homes Destroyed
At least 21 people have been killed and more than 1,000 homes destroyed after heavy rains triggered devastating landslides in Kenya’s western Rift Valley region. Officials confirmed the casualties on Saturday as rescue operations continue in the affected areas.
Emergency Response and Rescue Operations
Kenyan Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed that 25 seriously injured people were airlifted from Elgeyo-Marakwet County to Eldoret for medical treatment. Approximately 30 individuals remain missing as search operations continue with security force support.
“Preparation to supply more food and non-food relief items to the victims is underway. Military and police choppers are on standby to transport the items,” Murkomen stated.
Landslide Impact and Eyewitness Accounts
The landslide struck overnight in the hilly Chesongoch area of Elgeyo-Marakwet County, one of the regions worst affected by Kenya’s ongoing short rainy season.
Local resident Stephen Kittony described the terrifying moment: “We ran in different directions,” he said, recalling the chaos as the mudslide swept through their village after a loud, thunderous noise.
Rescue Challenges and Regional History
The Kenyan Red Cross is coordinating emergency response and air evacuations, though access remains challenging. “Access to some of the affected areas remains extremely difficult due to flooding and blocked routes,” the organization reported.
The Chesongoch region has experienced similar tragedies in the past, with deadly landslides killing dozens in 2010 and 2012, and flash floods destroying a shopping center in 2020.
