Rescue and recovery efforts in Marakwet East entered their fourth day on Tuesday, November 4, with authorities confirming that at least 34 bodies have been recovered so far.
In a statement, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the multi-agency operation, which involves security officers and local residents, remains ongoing as several people are still unaccounted for.
“As of today, 34 bodies have been retrieved, 4 persons have been discharged, 13 are still recuperating at MTRH, while 17 persons remain missing. Search and recovery operations are ongoing with the support of security agencies and local residents.
“Today, the focus has been on accelerating recovery and resettlement efforts. Trucks carrying essential food and non-food items were dispatched to reach the displaced families, marking a significant step in restoring normalcy to the region,” the statement read.
Mwaura added that the Ministry of Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation had already begun restoring water supply to affected communities.
“The Government, through the Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation, has taken immediate measures to restore water services disrupted by the mudslide. Cabinet Secretary (CS) Eng. Eric Muuga confirmed that the Mulwaber Water Intake and approximately 1.7 kilometres of pipeline were destroyed by the landslide.
“In response, water bowsers have been mobilized to ensure a steady supply of clean water to the affected communities,” the statement added.
Mwaura further noted that the Ministry will drill two boreholes beginning Wednesday, November 5, and construct emergency pit latrines.
“Beginning tomorrow, the Ministry will commence the drilling of 2 boreholes to provide a more sustainable water source. Additionally, emergency pit latrines are being constructed to safeguard public health in temporary shelters.
“The CS has left a technical team to assess the full extent of damage to water infrastructure with the goal of reinstating and continuing with the Mulwaber Irrigation Scheme project,” the statement further read.
Mwaura also noted that the government is stepping up environmental and climate preparedness measures in light of increased rainfall and landslide risks in several parts of the country.
“The Government, through the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, has enhanced its environmental and disaster preparedness interventions to mitigate further risks.
“The Cabinet Secretary Dr. Debora Barasa, has reaffirmed that the Kenya Meteorological Department continues to issue regular advisories and localized forecasts to the public, county governments and emergency response agencies,” the statement continued.
At the same time, Mwaura noted that several counties remain under close monitoring as part of the ongoing disaster risk mitigation strategy.
“The Ministry has identified and is closely monitoring high-risk zones across several counties, including Garissa, Tana River, Mandera, Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, Kisumu, Busia, Narok, and the Coastal Belt of Kilifi, Kwale, Mombasa, and Lamu. Community sensitization campaigns are ongoing in partnership with county governments and community-based organizations to encourage residents living in vulnerable areas to relocate to safer grounds,” the statement added.
Mwaura further acknowledged the contributions of various organizations and institutions that have stepped in to support the victims.
“The humanitarian response continues to attract support from various government agencies, private sector partners, and faith-based organizations. The Co-operative Bank of Kenya has donated Ksh5 million, while Saint Barnabas Catholic Church, Kimumu, donated 1.5 T of clothes. World Vision Kenya, the West Pokot County Government, and the Ministry of Special Programmes have contributed essential supplies, including rice, beans, blankets, mattresses, soap, and sanitary towels to support the affected families. Also, in a personal gesture of solidarity, Eng. Muuga donated 20 bales of rice to the affected families,” the statement concluded.
This update comes days after the government pledged to cover hospital and funeral expenses for the victims of the landslide that struck Marakwet East.
In a statement on Sunday, November 2, he announced that the government would take full responsibility for the victims’ medical care and burial costs.
Murkomen added that the government will assist families in the affected villages to rebuild.
“The Government will foot hospital bills and funeral costs, and support the people to rebuild their lives,” he said.
Murkomen added that both the military and police helicopters will remain in the area to assist with logistics and emergency evacuations.
He also revealed that education officials had made alternative plans to ensure national examinations proceed smoothly despite the devastation.
“The military and police helicopters will remain in the area to handle any emergency. About 15 schools are inaccessible and KNEC has made arrangements to airlift examination papers to the affected institutions,” he said.
Murkomen also extended gratitude to President William Ruto for providing the necessary resources and support to enable a swift and effective response to the crisis.
“We thank H.E. President Dr. William Samoei Ruto most sincerely for placing at our disposal all the support we needed. The resources were critical in saving lives and alleviating the suffering of those affected by the unfortunate incident,” he concluded.
