Landslide Tragedy in Kenya's Western Rift Valley Leaves 21 Dead and Thousands Displaced

Heavy rains triggered a devastating landslide in Kenya's western Rift Valley region, resulting in the deaths of at least 21 people and the destruction of over 1,000 homes. The incident, which occurred in Elgeyo-Marakwet County's hilly area of Chesongoch, has left thousands displaced and in need of assistance. Rescue efforts are underway, with the military and police choppers on standby to transport relief items and air evacuate the injured.

Key Takeaways:

• At least 21 people have been confirmed dead in the landslide, with 25 airlifted to Eldoret for medical attention and at least 30 remaining missing.
• Over 1,000 homes have been destroyed, leaving thousands displaced and in need of assistance.
• Rescue efforts are being coordinated by the Kenyan Red Cross, working with the National and County Governments, including air evacuations for the injured.
• The hilly area of Chesongoch is prone to landslides, with separate incidents leaving dozens dead in 2010 and 2012.
• A shopping centre was washed away by raging floods in 2020.
• The Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for the Interior, Kipchumba Murkomen, has assured that preparation to supply more food and non-food relief items to the victims is underway.

Statistics:

• At least 21 people have been killed in the landslide.
• Over 1,000 homes have been destroyed.
• 25 people have been airlifted to Eldoret for medical attention.
• At least 30 people remain missing.
• The landslide occurred in Elgeyo-Marakwet County's hilly area of Chesongoch.

Sources:

• Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for the Interior, Kipchumba Murkomen, statement on X, Saturday.
• Kenyan Red Cross, statement on X.
• Citizen Television, interview with Stephen Kittony.
• Twitter post by Kenya Red Cross, November 1, 2025.
• Twitter post by Kenya Red Cross, account reference.