Survivors in Makeshift Camps as Chesongoch Mudslide Search and Aid Efforts Drag On

Hundreds of families displaced by the catastrophic mudslide in Chesongoch, Elgeyo Marakwet, are still living in makeshift camps nearly two weeks after the deadly incident that destroyed homes and upended lives

As the community prepares to bury 40 victims, the search continues for eight people still believed to be trapped beneath the mud

The steep hills and deep valleys that characterise Chesongoch concealed a long-standing risk  one that erupted suddenly earlier this month, unleashing a massive mudslide that swept through the region and left widespread destruction

The surge of mud blocked key access roads, delaying rescue efforts and cutting off survivors from help. Among the worst-hit facilities was the Chesongoch Mission Hospital, a vital healthcare centre for the remote community

The mudslide wiped out critical infrastructure, including generators, beds, the kitchen and the sewerage system

“We had two generators  both were swept away. Our kitchen was carried away. Our sewerage system is gone. Our beds were carried away,” said Sister Lillian Raymond, the hospital’s administrator

With more than 100 families now displaced, authorities have acknowledged the magnitude of the disaster and the urgent need for long-term solutions. Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich confirmed that recovery efforts are ongoing as burial plans move forward

“We still miss about eight people and we hope to find them before we do the final burials,” he said. “We continue to condole with our people”

Governor Rotich added that environmental rehabilitation is a priority: “The most immediate option is to plant tree crops to stabilise the soil as the government considers long-term plans

Many of these people have nowhere to go, so we must balance livelihoods with safety. But we have advised our people to move”

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Humanitarian organisations and medical teams continue to brave the difficult terrain to deliver food, medical supplies and psychosocial support. MEDS Kenya is among the groups assisting

“We came after hearing the plea from the government and the bishop to help start rebuilding Chesongoch,” said Titus Munene of MEDS Kenya. “Today we brought a consignment of medicines, beds and mattresses”

Despite the grief and uncertainty, residents remain determined. Health workers at the devastated mission hospital say they are committed to restoring services and helping their community heal

“We will try our level best. We will recover and continue offering services to humanity  that is our calling,” one nurse said

Even in the face of overwhelming loss, the people of Chesongoch hold tightly to hope as they begin the long journey toward rebuilding their lives and their land

Writer  : Mweru Mbugua