Heavy rains triggered massive mudslides that destroyed more than 1,000 homes in Kenya’s Rift Valley region. Authorities confirmed at least 21 deaths and said more than 30 people remain missing. The landslide struck the hilly area of Chesongoch in Elgeyo Marakwet County on Saturday after days of relentless rainfall during Kenya’s short rain season.
The disaster left entire villages buried under mud and debris, cutting off major roads and isolating communities. Government helicopters airlifted 30 severely injured survivors to a hospital in Eldoret City for emergency treatment.
Survivors Describe Terrifying Moments
Local residents reported hearing a thunderous roar before the mudslide swept through their homes. Many fled in panic, running in every direction to escape the collapsing ground. “It sounded like the mountain was breaking apart,” one survivor said.
Despite ongoing rainfall, rescue teams worked through Saturday night to locate missing people. Emergency workers continued digging through the wreckage of flattened houses, hoping to find survivors trapped beneath the debris.
Government Plans New Settlement for Victims
Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen announced that the government will relocate displaced families to safer areas. Officials are currently identifying alternative settlement zones for victims who lost their homes.
The region has long faced similar tragedies. Landslides in Chesongoch killed dozens in 2010 and 2012, while flooding in 2020 destroyed a shopping centre. Authorities now fear worsening rainfall could cause further disasters unless residents move to more stable ground.
