The Kenyan government has confirmed that 21 people have died following a landslide in the western part of the country after heavy rainfall. Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen stated that the bodies had been transferred to a nearby airstrip following the incident in Marakwet East late on Friday night. He reported on social media platform X that more than 30 individuals were still unaccounted for, having been reported missing by their families, while 25 people with serious injuries had been airlifted for further medical attention.
The Kenyan Red Cross, which is assisting with the rescue efforts, noted that many affected areas remain inaccessible due to mudslides and flash flooding. Operations were paused on Saturday evening but are set to resume on Sunday. Murkomen mentioned that preparations are being made to supply more food and non-food relief items to the victims, with military and police helicopters on standby for transport.
Kenya is currently experiencing its second rainy season, which typically features shorter wet spells, as opposed to the heavier rains earlier in the year. The government has urged those living near seasonal rivers or in landslide-prone areas to relocate to safer locations.
In related news, neighboring Uganda has faced similar challenges due to relentless rains, resulting in multiple deaths from flash flooding and landslides since last Wednesday. The Uganda Red Cross reported further disasters, including a mudslide in Kapsomo village that destroyed a house and killed four individuals.
Floods in Uganda have caused significant damage to homes, agricultural fields, and community infrastructure, with the overflow of the River Astiri and River Sipi exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
