The government has increased response and recovery efforts in Elgeyo Marakwet after the deadly mudslide, as the death toll climbed to 34 on Tuesday.

Seventeen people remain missing, and 13 others are still receiving treatment at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret. Four people have been discharged.

A high-level team led by Water Cabinet Secretary (CS) Eric Muuga and Environment CS Deborah Barasa travelled to the affected area to coordinate the ongoing operations. Governors from Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot also joined the team on the ground.

Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said multi-agency teams and local residents are still searching for missing persons as recovery continues.

“As of today, 34 bodies have been retrieved, 4 persons have been discharged, 13 are still recuperating at MTRH, while 17 persons remain missing,” he said.

“Search and recovery operations are ongoing with the support of security agencies and local residents. Today, the focus has been on accelerating recovery and resettlement efforts.”

Water services being restored

CS Muuga confirmed that the mudslide destroyed the Mulwaber Water Intake and nearly two kilometres of pipeline. The government has mobilised water bowsers to supply clean water to communities, and drilling of two boreholes will begin on Wednesday to provide a stable source.

Emergency pit latrines are also being built in temporary shelters to protect public health. Engineers will continue assessing damaged infrastructure and plan long-term repairs, including reinstating the Mulwaber Irrigation Scheme.

Disaster preparedness and monitoring

The Ministry of Environment says the Kenya Meteorological Department is issuing regular advisories to help communities and authorities prepare for further rainfall. Barasa said the government is monitoring high-risk areas across several counties, including West Pokot, Baringo, Turkana, Kisumu, Busia, Garissa and the coastal region.

Satellite reports show potential cyclone activity in the western Indian Ocean, which could affect rainfall patterns along coastal and eastern Kenya. The public has been advised to remain alert and follow official warnings, especially in flood-prone areas.

The ministry is also working with NEMA and the Kenya Forest Service to stop encroachment on wetlands, riverbanks and water catchments, which can worsen flooding and landslides.

Relief assistance continues to arrive from government departments, private organisations and religious groups. Mwaura urged Kenyans to avoid crossing flooded roads and to follow instructions from authorities to stay safe as rains continue. Further updates will be issued as the situation develops.