Landslide in Western Kenya Claims 26 Lives as Floods Halt Rescue

A landslide in western Kenya has resulted in at least 26 fatalities, with rescue operations severely hampered by subsequent flooding. The disaster occurred in the Chesongoch area of the Rift Valley region, where heavy rainfall has caused significant flooding in multiple counties. On October 15, 2023, four additional bodies were recovered, raising the death toll.

Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen reported that 25 individuals remain unaccounted for, prompting the government to enhance search and recovery efforts. The military has deployed four aircraft to facilitate access to affected areas, which have been rendered inaccessible due to washed-away roads. Rescue teams had to suspend their search operations on Sunday as flash floods surged from nearby hills.

Rescue efforts have faced continuous challenges due to ongoing heavy rains across Kenya. The floods have displaced thousands of residents, with many communities urged to evacuate from areas prone to further landslides and flooding. Murkomen emphasized the government’s commitment to airlifting essential supplies to those affected, including students at 15 schools cut off from resources due to the disaster.

In a statement to the media, Murkomen expressed deep sympathy for families impacted by the tragedy. “It is very sad that families have lost five to six immediate family members,” he said. The government has also pledged to cover medical expenses for over 30 injured individuals and assist in resettling those whose homes were destroyed.

Oscar Okum, the regional manager for the Kenya Red Cross, highlighted the persistent threat of landslides in the region. “While we were conducting search and recovery, we encountered roads that had just been cleared being affected again by mudslides,” he noted. Okum urged community members to relocate to safer areas to protect their lives and livelihoods.

As conditions remain perilous, the government continues to monitor the situation closely. Efforts to provide necessary aid and support to the affected population are ongoing, with a focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of those enduring the impact of this natural disaster.