Preparations Finalized for the Burial of Chesongoch Landslide Victims
The Bishop is expected to deliver a message of hope, healing, and unity as the community grapples with the loss of so many lives in a disaster that has left deep emotional wounds.
Families, friends, religious leaders, and local officials united in organizing a collective farewell that mirrored the extent of the tragedy and strength of the community. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
The Chesongoch community in Elgeyo Marakwet County is bracing for one of its most emotional and heart-wrenching moments as the final journey of the 31 victims of the recent landslide begins today. Families, friends, religious leaders, and local officials united in organizing a collective farewell that mirrored the extent of the tragedy and strength of the community.
According to an update by Wisely Rotich, burial preparations have now entered the final phase. This afternoon, bodies will be released from both MTRH Mortuary in Eldoret and Tot Mortuary, after which they will be taken to their homes in Chesongoch, where a night vigil has been planned. Hundreds of mourners are expected to attend the vigil for prayer, remembrance, and solidarity with the affected families.
This will be followed on the following day by a Funeral Mass, starting at 9:00 a.m. at St. Maurus Grounds in Chesongoch, led by Bishop Dominic Kimengich of the Eldoret Catholic Diocese. The Bishop is expected to deliver a message of hope, healing, and unity as the community grapples with the loss of so many lives in a disaster that has left deep emotional wounds.
After the funeral service, all 31 victims will be buried in Chesongoch, marking the final chapter of a tragedy that has drawn sympathy and support from across the country. Leaders urge residents and friends of the region to stand together and support the grieving families as they lay their loved ones to rest.
Local leaders have reiterated that the mass sendoff is not a mourning moment but a display of community strength when disaster strikes. As Rotich provided his update, he invited all well-wishers to join in and stand in solidarity with the affected households.
“Welcome as we work together to give our people a befitting sendoff. Mutyo,”
he said, grateful for those who have stood with the families through the painful recovery process.
One of the deadliest disasters to hit Chesongoch in recent years is the landslide that happened and claimed 31 lives. This tragedy uprooted families, destroyed homes, and left survivors struggling with trauma. To many residents, the mass burial symbolizes closure, but it also means remembering that humanitarian assistance and disaster preparedness are needed continually. As the community gathers today and tomorrow, the people of Chesongoch are united by shared grief but strengthened by their resolve to honour the departed with dignity and respect.
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