Government Confirms 37 Dead in Elgeyo Marakwet Mudslide as Rescue Efforts Continue
Local and national agencies have been instructed to remain in close coordination for timely dissemination of early warning information.
Dr. Mwaura commended the strong sense of unity and compassion demonstrated by Kenyans, describing it as a clear reflection of national solidarity during a time of tragedy. Photo /courtesy
By Ruth Sang
The government has so far confirmed the death of 37 people following the devastating mudslide that hit parts of Elgeyo Marakwet County. This is according to the ninth official update from the Office of the Government Spokesperson released on Friday, November 7, 2025, which stated that multi-agency rescue, recovery, and humanitarian operations were still going on in the affected region.
The statement added that the search and rescue teams are still combing through the debris, 11 people are still missing, nine victims are still in hospitals receiving medical and psychosocial support, while the government repeated its commitment to coordinate the efforts currently aimed at supporting survivors, resettling the displaced families, and restoring normalcy in the area.
An update, signed by Government Spokesperson Hon. Sen. (Dr.) Isaac Mwaura said that relief operations have been enhanced through the collaboration of county and national agencies together with local residents and humanitarian partners. Led by Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich, food donations and essential supplies mobilized by community members, organizations, and the Wareng Powerhouse team were distributed to affected families.
Dr. Mwaura praised this as a clear reflection of national solidarity during tragedy, citing the strong sense of unity and compassion among Kenyans. “The Government acknowledges and appreciates this strong display of compassion and shared humanity during this trying time,” said the statement in part.
At the same time, according to the Kenya Meteorological Department, moderate to heavy rainfall will keep occurring over parts of Western Kenya, the Central Highlands, and the Rift Valley, with a tendency of enhancing the risk for localized floodings and landslides. Authorities have called on members of the public to be vigilant, avoid flooded roads, drive carefully, and seek shelter away from trees whenever there is a thunderstorm.
People in areas receiving heavy rainfall have been advised to watch out for vector-borne diseases, while those in drier areas have been cautioned against respiratory infections. Local and national agencies have been instructed to remain in close coordination for timely dissemination of early warning information. The government, while reiterating its continued support for rescue and recovery efforts, assured the people that it was committed to sustaining stabilization and rehabilitation programs through county governments, humanitarian organizations, and community stakeholders.
