Kipchumba Murkomen Urges Vigilance as Heavy Rains Cause Fatal Rockfall in Keiyo North
The senator’s comments come as meteorologists warn that the heavy rains are likely to continue in the coming weeks, exacerbating the risks of landslides.
Murkomen also urged residents to be vigilant at all times and report any warning signs of impending dangers. Photo/courtesy.
By Ruth Sang
Elgeyo Marakwet Senator Kipchumba Murkomen expressed his deep concern following a deadly rockfall in Kibendo, Keiyo North, which has claimed two lives and injured three others amid ongoing heavy rains across the region.
Speaking on the incident, Murkomen said, “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the deceased and wish a quick recovery to those who were injured. The ongoing rains continue to pose a serious risk of landslides, particularly along the Kerio Valley, and I urge residents to be extremely cautious.”
He added his praise for the timely response of local authorities: “I commend our law enforcement officers, NGAOs, the County Government of Elgeyo-Marakwet, and the Kenya Red Cross for their quick response and continued alertness to disaster incidents in the area. Their dedication has helped prevent further casualties during this challenging time.”
Murkomen also urged residents to be vigilant at all times and report any warning signs of impending dangers. “We continue to call on residents in the region to be aware of their surroundings, and to report any signs of earth movements to the local authorities. Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs have been instructed to move people to safer grounds in areas where earth movements are detected or have occurred in the past,” he added.
The senator’s comments come as meteorologists warn that the heavy rains are likely to continue in the coming weeks, exacerbating the risks of landslides and flooding across large swathes of the Rift Valley. Authorities have called on community members residing along steep slopes and escarpments to heed safety advisories and cooperate with disaster response teams to minimize the occurrence of further tragedies.
The incident in Kibendo highlights the ongoing vulnerability of the region to natural disasters during the rainy season, and Murkomen’s statements emphasize the need for proactive measures and community awareness to safeguard lives and property.
