Elgeyo Marakwet County (EMC) is reeling after torrential rains triggered devastating landslides early Friday morning, sweeping through villages, destroying homes, and washing away key road infrastructure.
Wilson Chepkole, a staff member at Moi University, reported that the disaster struck around 2:00 a.m., when heavy rainfall on the Tirap escarpment sent massive runoff into the Enoow River.
The river burst its banks, carrying mud, rocks, and debris downstream, particularly affecting Kikisegei village and the valley floor of the Murkutwo area.
“The rains started in the evening and never stopped. By 2:00 a.m., the mudslides had reached homes. Everything was swept away,” said Chepkole, who tragically lost his uncle in the calamity. “Ten people have been confirmed dead, including a newly employed teacher, One Ben, while several others are still missing.”
Most bridges in the region, including those over the Arror, Chemworor, and Embobut rivers, were swept away. Even the historic 1952 British colonial bridge has been severely damaged. The road network is now largely impassable, prompting the government to rely on helicopters to ferry the injured to hospitals.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen is coordinating the State’s response by leading a multi-agency effort involving the Kenya Defence Forces, Kenya Red Cross, and the National Police Service to ensure that rescue operations and emergency aid reach affected communities.
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He is coordinating the rapid assessment and repair of damaged roads and bridges to restore connectivity and support ongoing relief efforts.
“We are working closely with all emergency responders to ensure swift rescue operations and humanitarian assistance,” Murkomen said, emphasizing that the government is fully mobilized to save lives.
Authorities are appealing for immediate support, including medical care, temporary shelter, food, and clean water for displaced families. With more rains expected over the weekend, the situation remains critical, particularly in low-lying valley areas.
Despite the tragedy, the combined efforts of government agencies, local volunteers, and community leaders aim to mitigate further loss and restore hope in Elgeyo Marakwet.
By Hillary Muhalya
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