Families affected by the devastating Chesongoch landslide in Elgeyo Marakwet County have received 53 new houses, marking a major step towards recovery following the disaster that claimed more than 39 lives last year.
The handover ceremony, held on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, was presided over by First Lady Rachel Ruto, who urged the affected families to rebuild their lives and embrace the new chapter with hope.
The houses form part of a wider initiative that has delivered 55 homes, including two previously handed over to affected families in Kibendo.
Speaking during the ceremony, Mrs Ruto said the construction of the houses marked an important milestone in restoring hope, dignity and stability to families who lost their homes and livelihoods.
“The handover of these houses marks an important step in restoring hope, dignity and stability to families as they rebuild their lives,” she said.
NYS constructs permanent homes for affected families
The houses were constructed through a partnership involving the National Youth Service (NYS), the national and county governments, professionals from the region, corporate partners and other well-wishers.
Each house comprises two bedrooms, a living room, a separate kitchen and a toilet, providing permanent shelter for the affected families.
The First Lady reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting families affected by disasters and helping them rebuild their lives.
Mrs Ruto also laid the foundation stone for the Chesongoch Resource Centre, which is expected to house a modern library, an ICT Village Hub and a social hall aimed at expanding educational, technological and economic opportunities for residents.
“Beyond shelter, we laid the foundation for Chesongoch Resource Centre and ICT Hub to expand opportunities for women and young people in this community,” said the First Lady.
Government outlines environmental restoration plans
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the government was implementing long-term environmental restoration measures in the region to address ecosystem degradation and reduce the risk of future disasters.
Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich welcomed the housing initiative, saying the affected families could now rebuild their lives in dignity.
“I would like to appreciate all Kenyans of goodwill, state and non-state actors who stood with us throughout this journey,” said Rotich.
The governor also commended local professionals for their significant contribution to the recovery and reconstruction efforts.
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