Gov’t Relocates Marakwet Landslide Victims, Launches Mental Health Support Initiative

The government has begun relocating families affected by the devastating Marakwet landslide while rolling out a mental health support programme to aid survivors

Speaking during a tree-planting exercise in Kongit Forest, Mount Elgon, Environment Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa said more than 6,000 households were displaced by the mudslide, which also caused severe flooding and crop destruction in parts of Elgeyo Marakwet, Songot, Trans Nzoia, and Majalala

CS Barasa detailed a multi-ministry response plan involving the Ministries of Water, Agriculture, and Environment to address both immediate relief and long-term restoration

“In the short term, we have moved the affected families to safe, clean areas and provided food, blankets, mattresses, and other essentials,” she said. “We have also ensured access to sanitation, medical services, and psychological support for the victims”

The government, she added, is appealing to development partners and conservationists to help restore the affected regions

The October 31 disaster, triggered by heavy rains, left more than 20 people missing. Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed that 19 survivors were rescued and urged residents in Kerio Valley to heed early warnings

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Murkomen attributed the tragedy to years of deforestation and poor farming practices, urging residents to adopt sustainable land use. “The biggest problem is deforestation and landlessness,” he said. “Farmers should consider crops like tea instead of maize and millet to help curb soil erosion”

Writer : Mweru Mbugua