NAIROBI, Kenya – Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has sent a message of condolence to residents of Elgeyo Marakwet County following deadly landslides that have claimed at least 26 lives and displaced dozens of families.
In an X post on Monday, Gachagua expressed sorrow over the tragedy that struck the Kerio Valley region over the weekend, describing it as “devastating” and calling for swift, coordinated action to prevent further loss of life.
“To the families who have lost their loved ones, including our young students who tragically lost their lives, my heart goes out to you,” he wrote. “No effort should be spared by all stakeholders to save lives, property and provide relief to those affected.”
I extend my deepest sympathies to the people of Elgeyo Marakwet following the devastating landslides and rockfalls that occurred on Saturday and Sunday night, resulting in loss of life and property.To the families who have lost their loved ones, including our young students who
Authorities confirmed on Saturday that the death toll had risen to 26 after four more bodies were recovered in Chesongoch, one of the worst-hit areas.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said rescue and evacuation efforts were ongoing, with security and emergency teams working to reach stranded residents.
“The government is working closely with all relevant agencies to ensure that rescue, relief, and evacuation efforts continue smoothly,” Murkomen said. “Food and other humanitarian supplies are already being distributed to displaced families.”
The multi-agency operation, led by the Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service, and the Kenya Red Cross Society, continues to comb through debris as the government warns residents in high-risk areas to relocate to safer ground.
Heavy rains pounding the region since Friday have triggered widespread flooding and rockfalls, burying homes and destroying farmlands in the hilly Kerio Valley terrain.
