The death toll of the devastating mudslide that struck Elgeyo Marakwet County has risen to 37.
In a statement on Friday, November 7, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said 11 people are still missing while 9 others are in the hospital.
Mwaura noted that a multi-agency team comprising the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), National police Service (NPS), National Youth Service (NYS), and the Kenya Red Cross is still conducting an operation to locate the missing persons.
“The Government continues to coordinate the multi-agency rescue, recovery, humanitarian support, and resettlement efforts in Elgeyo Marakwet County. As of today, the total number of confirmed fatalities to 37.
“11 persons remain missing, and search operations are ongoing. Meanwhile, 9 Mudslide Affected Persons (MAPs) are still hospitalized and continue to receive medical and psychosocial support,” read the statement in part.
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Mwaura also said that moderate to heavy rainfall is expected over parts of Western Kenya, the Central Highlands, and the Rift Valley, warning of an increased risk of localized flooding and landslides, particularly in areas where soils are already saturated.
The Government Spokesperson advised members of the public to exercise caution and remain alert to any advisories issued by the Kenya Meteorological Department.
“Members of the public are urged to exercise heightened caution, avoid crossing flooded areas, drive carefully, avoid sheltering under trees during thunderstorms, and remain alert to early warning advisories issued by the Kenya Meteorological Department and local authorities,” said Mwaura.
Further, he said residents in wet areas should guard against vector-borne diseases, while those in drier regions should take precautions against respiratory infections.
The devastating mudslide in Machember village, Elgeyo Marakwet, occurred on the night of Friday, October 31, following several days of heavy rainfall in various parts of the country.
On the night of Sunday, November 2, another mudslide struck the Kibendo area in Keiyo North, Elgeyo Marakwet County, leaving two people dead.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation has already begun restoring water supply to affected communities. The Ministry is drilling two boreholes in the area and constructing emergency pit latrines.
The government has also distributed donations and food supplies to the families affected by the landslides.
