Chesongoch landslide: 10 people still missing as families join search and rescue mission

Search and recovery for 10 people suspected to be under the rubble in the Chesongoch area of Elgeyo Marakwet is underway, with families joining in the operation to look for their kin.

One week after the tragedy struck leaving a trail of death, the government’s manpower has already vacated and families have now resorted to digging through the washed-off soil that is firming up to dry earth fast.

One body was recovered on Monday, raising hopes that more will be retrieved before the planned burial.

The families are now dealing with the double tragedy of loss of life and livelihoods, as the humanitarian crisis escalates with every passing day.

“Sisi tunazunguka kutafuta watoto. Leo tumepata mtoto mmoja na iko nguvu kusema watapatikana wengine tena," said Jennifer Cherop, a resident.

Susan Kaino, another resident said: “Mtoto wangu Martin Chesach hajapatikana, alafu pia kuna mtoto mwingine wa jirani anaitwa Chebet pia hajapatikana. Lakini tuko na matumaini watapatikana alafu tutawazika wote.”

“Tunaendelea kutafuta na tunaongea nao kwa sababu wamedhofika. Sasa hii tunapanga kuzika hao 29, lakini hao kumi nani atawazika ni changamoto kweli," Elgeyo Marakwet Disaster Manager, Lawrence Mutwol added.

In a tour of the area on Saturday, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku outlined the government’s commitment to settle hospital bills, funeral expenses, as well as humanitarian support for the affected families. However, the buzz is dying down and families are now left at a crossroads.

“Mtupatie shamba tutoke hapa, tuende tuishe huko mahali pazuri, kwa sababu hakuna shamba ingine naweza jenga nyumba. Ni hapo tu mahali naweza kaa na watoto wenye wamebaki, na saa hii hatuna pa kuenda, mawe imejaa shamba yote," another residebt Philomena Chelimo stated.

The Chesongoch landslide left 38 people dead, with ten others still missing. A mass funeral service will be conducted on the 21st of this month before the bodies are handed over to the respective families for interment.