Elgeyo-Marakwet Torrential rains unleashed a deadly landslide in western Kenya’s Rift Valley region over the weekend, killing at least 26 people and leaving more than two dozen others missing. The disaster struck Murkutwa village in Elgeyo-Marakwet County, where entire homes were swept away by mud and debris.
Rescue Efforts Underway
Kenyan authorities have deployed military aircraft and disaster response teams to the affected area. According to government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, 25 people are still unaccounted for, while 26 others have been rescued and are receiving treatment in Eldoret and nearby hospitals.
Aerial footage shows vast swaths of land submerged or buried under mud, with the Kenya Red Cross airlifting survivors from isolated areas. Emergency crews are racing against time amid fears of further landslides due to ongoing rainfall.
Widespread Destruction
More than 1,000 homes have been destroyed, displacing hundreds of families. Local officials described the scene as catastrophic, with roads cut off and communication lines disrupted. The government has set up temporary shelters and is coordinating relief efforts with humanitarian agencies.
Climate Crisis and Vulnerability
Experts warn that the increasing frequency and intensity of such disasters in Kenya are linked to climate change. In recent years, the country has experienced a surge in extreme weather events, including floods, droughts, and landslides. In 2024, a similar mudslide in central Kenya claimed 61 lives.
National Mourning and Response
President William Ruto expressed condolences to the victims’ families and pledged full government support for rescue and recovery. “We are mobilizing all available resources to save lives and assist those affected,” he said in a statement.
Environment Correspondent, TWW News
Diya is a journalist at TWW News specializing in environmental reporting with a global lens. Her work spans climate policy, conservation breakthroughs, and the intersection of ecological justice and geopolitics. With a sharp eye for data and a commitment to public accountability, Diya covers stories that matter—from rising sea levels to green tech innovation—with clarity, urgency, and impact.
She brings a background in environmental science and field reporting, often spotlighting underrepresented communities and frontline climate defenders. At TWW News, Diya’s coverage is engineered for credibility, legal rigor, and Global grade editorial standards, helping readers navigate the complexities of a changing planet.