Elgeyo Marakwet Landslide Survivors Describe Terrifying Night That Killed 32

Rescue teams in Elgeyo Marakwet County are continuing urgent operations after deadly landslides claimed dozens of lives and left hundreds homeless.

The disaster, caused by heavy rainfall and unstable slopes, has devastated more than ten villages in the Embobut, Sambirir, Endo, and Ariti wards. Entire households were swept away overnight as water and debris surged through the area. 

Authorities have confirmed 32 deaths, including 14 schoolchildren, while 25 people remain missing. Survivors have shared accounts of their narrow escapes. Margaret, a mother, said she woke to the sound of rushing water before being struck by falling debris. 

“Shortly, my mouth was filled with mud and water,” she recalled. Gabriel Yego, 89, described it as the worst disaster he had ever seen. “The water was a lot; it swept many people,” he said.

At Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret, medical teams have treated 39 injured survivors with fractures and soft tissue injuries. Acting CEO Dr Andrew Wandera reported that 13 patients have been discharged, while 23 remain under care. Three wards have been set aside for landslide victims, including children and older patients. 

“They are responding well to treatment and may be discharged soon,” Dr Wandera said, adding that the hospital has sufficient capacity to manage the emergency.

A multi-agency task force led by the Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service, Kenya Red Cross, and local volunteers is coordinating the response. Aerial operations are delivering aid to cut-off areas where roads remain blocked. Access challenges persist, particularly in Chesongoch and nearby villages, slowing rescue and recovery work despite reduced rainfall.

Leaders visiting the affected areas have called for long-term measures to prevent future disasters. Uasin Gishu MP Gladys Boss, alongside former legislators Jackson Kiptanui and Linah Kilimo, urged the government to strengthen early warning systems and promote sustainable land use. Governor Wisley Rotich has pledged to reopen damaged roads and support displaced families, while Embobut MCA Paul Kipyatich described the destruction as extensive.

The Ministry of Interior has warned that heavy rains are likely to continue across several counties, increasing the risk of further landslides and flooding. As the search enters its fourth day, officials acknowledge that the chances of finding survivors are decreasing. Discussions are underway to organise burials for victims whose bodies are being held at the MTRH morgue.

Around 500 families have been affected, many now relying on emergency aid.