Devastating Landslide in Marakwet East Triggers Mass Casualties, Displaces Families
Heavy rainfall in Marakwet East triggered a devastating landslide, killing 26 people and leaving 25 missing, while displacing several families. The tragedy has left the local community devastated, with many homes destroyed and infrastructure severely damaged. In response to the disaster, the government has put in place contingency plans to support affected learners, particularly those set to sit for national examinations.
Key Takeaways:
- A total of 14 learners are among the 26 people confirmed dead following the landslide.
- The disaster occurred after heavy rains triggered mudslides that swept through several villages, destroying homes and infrastructure.
- The government has put in place contingency plans to support students affected by the disaster, with rescue operations ongoing to search for missing persons and assist displaced families.
- Authorities have urged residents in landslide-prone areas to relocate to safer grounds as the heavy rains persist across the region.
- The Ministry of Education has arranged for exam papers to be airlifted to designated emergency examination centres, allowing affected learners to continue their National exams without disruption.
- The rescue operation involves government agencies, the Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service, Kenya Red Cross, and local authorities.
Statistics:
- Total number of deaths: 26
- Number of learners among the dead: 14
- Number of people missing: 25
- Number of villages affected: several
- Total number of personnel involved in rescue operations: hundreds
- Number of helicopters deployed: multiple
- Number of ambulances deployed: multiple
Sources:
- "Fourteen learners among 26 people confirmed dead in Elgeyo Marakwet landslide" (Capital FM, 2025)
- "Government assures Kenyans of uninterrupted National exams despite Elgeyo Marakwet landslide" (Capital FM, 2025)
- "534 people have died in flood-related incidents in Kenya as of October 5, 2025" (The Star, 2025)