Families Prepare for Mass Burial of Mudslide Victims in Elgeyo Marakwet
Leaders have also called for continued support as the families of those affected begin rebuilding their lives, which will take time.
The tragedy was described by local leaders as one of the most painful disasters to hit the region in recent years. Photo/Courtesy
By ruth Sang
Final preparations are underway as families from Embobut-Embolot and Sambirir Wards get ready to inter their relatives who lost their lives in the mudslides that hit parts of Elgeyo Marakwet County recently. The victims, whose tragic deaths sent the communities into shock and deep mourning, will get a joint farewell on Thursday in a ceremony bringing together residents, religious leaders, and senior government officials.
A coordination meeting held prior to the burial brought together affected families, local leaders, and representatives from the national government. The session was chaired by Acting County Commissioner Mr. Julius Maiyo, who assured families of continued government support throughout the mourning period. He was accompanied by Mr. Timothy Kilimo from the national planning committee, who emphasized that the government was committed to ensuring a dignified and well-coordinated memorial service.
According to the organizing committee, a requiem Mass will be held at Kapchebau Grounds, where the community is expected to gather in large numbers to honor the victims. The joint service, commencing at 9:00 am, will run until 12:30 pm, after which grieving families will escort the bodies of their loved ones to their respective homes for final burial rites.
The tragedy was described by local leaders as one of the most painful disasters to hit the region in recent years. Several people have been left homeless, while others continue to grapple with the emotional toll of losing multiple family members. Humanitarian organizations, church groups, and other well-wishers have continued to provide support with counseling services, food aid, and burial assistance.
Members of the community have been thankful for all those persons and organizations that have stepped in to help during the difficult time. Leaders have also called for continued support as the families of those affected begin rebuilding their lives, which will take time.
The mood is somber but united in Embobut-Embolot and Sambirir as preparations conclude for a mass farewell. It will not only provide the mourning families with closure but has also become an important moment for shared healing for a community deeply shaken by the disaster. The county administration reiterated its commitment to increasing disaster preparedness, urging residents living in high-risk areas across the county to be vigilant, particularly in this rainy season.
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