Government Confirms 22 Dead, 29 Missing in Elgeyo Marakwet Mudslide as Rescue Efforts Intensify
So far, 22 bodies have been retrieved and 21 survivors—including 14 adults and 7 children—are receiving treatment at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret
By James Gitaka, Eldoret | November 2, 2025
The Government has confirmed that 22 people have died and 29 others remain missing following a devastating mudslide that struck Marakwet East Constituency in Elgeyo Marakwet County early Saturday morning. The tragedy, triggered by heavy rains, has displaced hundreds and left scores injured.
Addressing the media at Eldoret Airstrip on Sunday morning, Government Spokesperson Hon. (Sen.) Dr. Isaac Mwaura, CBS, said the Government had mobilized a full-scale multi-agency response to support affected families and coordinate ongoing rescue operations.
“It is with a heavy heart that we address the nation today. On behalf of the Government of Kenya, we express our deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones. The Government shares in your grief and stands with you during this painful time,” Dr. Mwaura said.
Rescue and Relief Operations Underway
Rescue efforts are ongoing, spearheaded by a multi-agency team comprising the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), National Police Service, National Youth Service (NYS), Kenya Red Cross Society, and officials from Elgeyo Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, and Nandi County Governments.
So far, 22 bodies have been retrieved and 21 survivors—including 14 adults and 7 children—are receiving treatment at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret. Two additional patients were airlifted to MTRH on Sunday morning.
“The Government remains committed to ensuring that all those injured receive the care and support they deserve. We shall leave no one behind,” the spokesperson affirmed.
Government Support and Humanitarian Response
The State Department of Special Programs has distributed 600 bags of rice, 520 bags of beans, 1,000 blankets, 300 mattresses, 30 boxes of soap, and 10 bales of sanitary towels to displaced families.
The Kenya Defence Forces have deployed four helicopters and one fixed-wing aircraft to aid in search and rescue, as well as medical teams and disaster response units.
The County Government of Elgeyo Marakwet has dispatched medical personnel, road-clearing machinery, food supplies, and disaster response teams to the affected area, while Uasin Gishu County has provided ambulances, road machinery, foodstuff, and water bowsers.
The Kenya Red Cross Society has played a critical role in tracing missing persons, providing psychosocial support, and supplying food and non-food relief items.
“We have deployed drones and GIS mapping technology to assist in search efforts and distributed seven tonnes of food and non-food items to affected families,” said a Kenya Red Cross official on the ground.
Education and Exams to Continue Uninterrupted
Despite the tragedy, the Ministry of Education has assured that national examinations in affected areas will proceed without interruption. Exam papers will be airlifted to ensure candidates sit their papers as scheduled.
“For the one student whose hand was injured, special arrangements have been made for them to take their exam at the hospital,” Dr. Mwaura confirmed.
Appeal for Continued Support
The Government has appealed to Kenyans of goodwill to continue donating food, clothing, household items, blankets, and medical supplies to support those affected.
“We thank residents of Elgeyo Marakwet and Uasin Gishu who have already come forward with donations. This spirit of unity is what defines us as Kenyans,” the statement read.
Dr. Mwaura assured the public that the Government remains on high alert as rains continue in various parts of the country and urged residents in flood-prone areas to relocate to safer grounds.
“Together, we will overcome this tragedy and help the affected families rebuild their lives. Kenya itasimama, Kenya itainuka, Kenya itanawiri—kwa umoja na uzalendo,” he said.
The Government will issue further updates as the situation develops.
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