Landslide in Western Kenya Claims 26 Lives, Search Efforts Halted

A devastating landslide in western Kenya has resulted in at least 26 fatalities, with rescue operations halted due to severe flooding in the region. On October 15, 2023, authorities recovered four additional bodies, bringing the total death toll to 26. The landslide struck the Chesongoch area in the Rift Valley, and as of now, 25 people remain unaccounted for.

Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen announced that the government has intensified search efforts. The military has deployed four aircraft to assist rescue teams in accessing affected areas, which have been rendered inaccessible after roads were washed away during the landslide. Unfortunately, ongoing flash floods forced search teams to suspend their operations on Sunday.

Heavy rainfall continues to affect various regions across Kenya, leading to flooding in multiple counties and displacing thousands of residents. In light of these events, the government has issued warnings to individuals living in flood-prone or landslide-affected areas, urging them to evacuate as rain is expected to persist.

Minister Murkomen also highlighted that the government plans to provide airlifted supplies to those impacted, including necessary materials for 15 schools that have been isolated. Additionally, he stated that medical expenses for over 30 injured individuals will be covered, along with resettlement assistance for families who have lost their homes.

“It is very sad that families have lost five to six immediate family members,” Murkomen expressed during a press briefing on Sunday, emphasizing the tragedy of the situation.

Oscar Okum, the regional manager for the Kenya Red Cross, noted the ongoing risk of landslides in the Rift Valley area. “While we were conducting search and recovery, we witnessed roads that had just been cleared being re-affected by mudslides. This remains an active situation, and we urge community members to relocate to safer areas for their safety and livelihoods,” he stated.

The government’s commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis includes not only immediate aid but also ongoing assessments of the risks posed by severe weather patterns in the region. Local authorities are on high alert, and further measures are expected as they navigate the challenges presented by the continuing rainfall and its aftermath.