The Principal Secretary for Basic Education, Prof Julius Bitok, has confirmed that fourteen students are among the 26 people who died following a landslide that struck Marakwet East in Elgeyo Marakwet County on Saturday, November 1, 2025.
Speaking during a press briefing in Westlands earlier today, Bitok said the government has activated emergency measures to support affected learners, especially those preparing for the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams this week.
“We have put in place logistical arrangements and are working closely with security agencies to ensure all affected students are safely evacuated and can sit for their examinations without interruption,” he said
Bitok added that he would personally travel to the affected region to oversee preparations and ensure candidates are not disadvantaged.
“This loss is deeply saddening, and we extend our condolences to the families and everyone affected,” Bitok said.
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The landslide, triggered by heavy rains in the early hours of Saturday, swept through several villages, destroying homes and infrastructure. Helicopters, ambulances, and medical personnel have been mobilised to evacuate the injured and deliver aid.
Meanwhile, rescue operations are ongoing under challenging conditions. Emergency teams from the Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service, Kenya Red Cross, and local authorities remain on high alert, searching for missing persons and assisting displaced families.
Despite the tragedy, the PS assured that examination logistics have been secured. “We are doing everything possible to restore normalcy in all schools in the valley and across the region, so learners can continue their exams and daily activities with minimal disruption,” he said.
He also called on all stakeholders to uphold integrity as KCSE theory papers commenced, stressing the importance of adhering to Kenya National Examinations Council regulations. “Teachers have been deployed adequately to cover all centres, and learners are being closely supervised,” he said.
Bitok confirmed that marking will be conducted electronically, with results expected within 40 days to allow for smooth placement and transition to senior school.
By Masaki Enock
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