The death toll from the catastrophic landslides that struck parts of Elgeyo Marakwet County has risen to 26, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has confirmed.
Speaking during a visit to the affected areas on Sunday, Murkomen reported that 25 individuals remain missing, while 26 others have been hospitalised as rescue and recovery operations continue.
“Endo Ward bore the brunt of the tragedy, with 19 of the dead hailing from the place. Embobut/Embolot Ward lost 5 people, while Sambirir Ward lost 2,” said the CS stated.
Murkomen noted that the government has deployed multi-agency teams, including military and police helicopters, to assist with emergency response and evacuation efforts.
In light of the tragedy, he announced that the government will cover hospital bills and funeral costs, as well as support the affected individuals in rebuilding their lives.
“We thank President Dr. William Samoei Ruto most sincerely for placing at our disposal all the support we needed. The resources were critical in saving lives and alleviating the suffering of those affected by the unfortunate incident.” he added
At the same time, about 15 schools remain inaccessible, affecting students currently undertaking their national examinations. The Ministry of Education has assured that arrangements are in place to airlift examination papers to the affected institutions to ensure candidates are not disadvantaged.
Murkomen further revealed that his counterpart in Roads and Transport, Davis Chirchir, is fast-tracking the release of emergency funds to repair damaged roads. Meanwhile, Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi has dispatched teams to restore electricity in the affected areas as efforts to return life to normal continue. Special Programmes CS Geoffrey Ruku will also coordinate humanitarian support in collaboration with the Elgeyo-Marakwet County Government.
“Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs in the affected Wards are continuing to sensitise people to move to safer grounds,” he said
