President William Ruto has joined the nation in sending prayers and assuring families affected by the Marakwet East landslide of government support.

The disaster struck late Friday night, October 31, 2025, following heavy rainfall, which triggered mudslides in multiple villages across the Elgeyo Marakwet County.

In a statement late on Saturday night, November 1, 2025, Ruto affirmed that his administration, through a multi-agency team, was offering support to the affected families.

He further indicated that his administration had deployed different teams to aid in the rescue mission.

“Our prayers are with the families affected by the devastating landslide in Marakwet East, Elgeyo Marakwet County,” Ruto’s statement read in part.

“The government is offering support in the ongoing search and rescue operations,” it added.

Death toll

According to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, 21 people have died in the Marakwet East landslide, while over 30 remain unaccounted for.

In a statement on Saturday, November 1, 2025, Murkomen informed the country that the government had paused search and rescue operations for Saturday evening, with plans to resume the mission on Sunday, November 2, 2025.

“We have paused our search and rescue operations for today. We have confirmed the loss of 21 people to this tragedy, while over 30 people are still unaccounted for as reported by their families,” Murkomen’s statement read in part.

“25 people with serious injuries have been airlifted to Eldoret for further medical attention, while others with minor injuries have been attended to locally.”

Other officials including Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, confirmed that urgent supplies had been secured and those rescued airlifted to various hospitals.

“The evacuation efforts have been hampered by continuous heavy downpours; however, the exercise will proceed until all marooned families are safely relocated. The government continues to closely monitor the situation across the country,” Isaac Mwaura stated.

Moreover, Elgeyo Marwet County officials continue to work alongside national agencies to identify missing persons and support affected households. Chiefs and local administrators are helping move families to safer locations, while search teams work under challenging conditions to recover victims.