Deforestation, farming methods contributed to Elgeyo Marakwet landslides - Murkomen

"The biggest problem with this issue is deforestation, the problem of landlessness," he said. "If you go further where people own their own personal land, you will find that the kinds of farming are precipitating these issues, instead of doing millet and maize, it's better to do tea crops," he added.

Speaking in Eldoret on Sunday, Murkomen described the tragedy as a national catastrophe, urging the communities in Kerio Valley to move to safer grounds as heavy rains persists.

The CS called on residents to heed early warnings and cooperate with local chiefs and administrators to minimize further loss of life.

"The entire Kerio Valley is under threat as it continues to rain; there is always the danger of landslides. The county and region Commissioner is well briefed to make sure that we give early warning and alerts to everybody to go to safe ground," he said.

He added that the government is scaling up its disaster response capacity to better cope with the effects of climate change, noting that 21 people have been confirmed dead following the massive landslide that swept through Machember Sub-location in Mukurtwo on the night of Friday, October 31. Two more bodies were recovered on Sunday morning.

According to the Ministry of Interior, 19 survivors were rescued, while several others are receiving treatment at Chesongoch Mission Hospital.

Search and rescue operations continue amid impassable roads and blocked access routes, with the government deploying aerial support to assist with evacuation and medical aid.

The CS further condoled with the affected families and assured the government's continued support to the local communities.

Meanwhile, heavy rains and flooding continue to wreak havoc in other parts of the country, causing deaths and destruction of properties in parts of Kisumu West, including Dhuhush, Lebille, Bultobanta, and Bangale areas, Garissa County, as well as Laikipia and parts of Mombasa County, Mburukenge and Kaa Chonjo.

The Ministry of Interior has warned that heavy rainfall is expected to persist across several regions, heightening the risk of floods and landslides, especially in hilly and riverine areas.

A multi-agency response team comprising the National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs), National Police Service, Kenya Red Cross, and other agencies is coordinating ongoing relief and evacuation efforts.