Tragic Landslide in Kenya Claims 21 Lives Amid Ongoing Flooding

Sun Nov 02 2025 06:04:58 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A devastating landslide in western Kenya has resulted in the death of 21 individuals, as heavy rainfall continues to impact the region. The government is coordinating search and rescue efforts amidst challenging conditions.

On Friday night, heavy rains triggered a landslide in Marakwet East, western Kenya, resulting in 21 confirmed deaths and over 30 people reported missing. The Kenyan Red Cross is aiding rescue operations, although many areas remain inaccessible due to mudslides and flooding. The government has paused rescue operations temporarily but plans to resume efforts and provide relief supplies to affected residents.

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 after the incident occurred in Marakwet East late on Friday night.

He also noted that more than 30 individuals are still unaccounted for after being reported missing by their families, and 25 people with severe injuries have been airlifted for medical treatment.

The Kenyan Red Cross, coordinating rescue operations, reported that the most affected areas remain inaccessible by road due to mudslides and flash flooding. The government has paused the search and rescue operation but intends to resume on Sunday.

Preparation to supply more food and non-food relief items to the victims is underway, said Murkomen, adding that military and police helicopters are on standby to transport supplies.

This landslide occurs during Kenya's second rainy season, a period typically marked by several weeks of wet weather, which has been particularly intense this year.

The government has urged residents living near seasonal rivers as well as in areas that experienced landslides to relocate to safer locations.

In addition, Uganda has faced similar weather challenges. Flash flooding and landslides in areas near the border with Kenya have resulted in numerous fatalities since last Wednesday. The Uganda Red Cross reported another mudslide in Kapsomo village, which claimed four lives and destroyed a house.

Areas surrounding riverbanks in the Bulambuli District of Uganda have suffered extensive damage due to overflowing rivers, leading to the destruction of homes, farmland, and community infrastructure.