10 Dead, Dozens Missing After Massive Landslide in Elgeyo Marakwet

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Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya – At least ten people have been confirmed dead and several others reported missing after a massive landslide swept through Murkutwa village in Chesongoch, Elgeyo Marakwet County, late Friday night.

The tragedy followed hours of heavy rainfall that triggered mud and rock slides, burying several homes and leaving dozens of families stranded.

According to local authorities, the landslide struck without warning, flattening houses and blocking key access roads. Rescue efforts have been severely hampered by the extensive debris, making it difficult for emergency teams to reach the affected residents.

Kerio Valley Police Sub-County Commander Zablon Okoyo confirmed the fatalities, adding that the number could rise as search and rescue operations continue.

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“We have lost ten people so far, but many more are still missing. Roads are impassable, and we are appealing for air support to help reach remote areas,” Okoyo said.

Residents have been camping on higher ground for safety as heavy rains persist across the region. Local leaders and humanitarian organizations have appealed for immediate intervention, including food, medical supplies, and temporary shelters for displaced families.

Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich has called on the national government to deploy disaster response teams and helicopters to assist in evacuation and relief efforts. “This is a humanitarian crisis. We need urgent support to rescue those trapped and prevent further loss of life,” the governor stated.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned that more rainfall is expected in the coming days, urging residents in landslide-prone areas to relocate to safer zones.

Meanwhile, rescue teams continue to dig through the mud and rubble, hoping to find survivors amid the devastation.

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