This archive report was first published on 25 November 2019.
Published on November 25, 2019
Devastating landslides that hit remote villages in West Pokot County have claimed at least 46 lives, with more bodies being pulled from the mounds of soil.
West Pokot Governor John Lonyangapuo said rescue and recovery missions by various government agencies were underway, adding that the number of deaths could rise.
Five bodies were recovered in Sigor and another four in Parua, adding to the 37 deaths recorded on Saturday, he said.
On Saturday, 16 people were admitted to Kapenguria County Referral Hospital, with two being discharged the same day and another two referred to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital.
More than 400 people have been displaced and are camping at various primary schools located on higher ground, County Commissioner Apollo Okello said.
The most affected villages are Nyarkulian, Parua, and Muino.
Rescue efforts were hampered by heavy rains that pounded the area on Saturday, but the rains had subsided by Sunday, allowing humanitarian assistance to reach the area.
Security officers and humanitarian officials took over 18 hours to arrive at the affected villages, which are located in the most remote parts of the county.
Residents described the landslides as sudden and chaotic, with the darkness adding to the confusion.
Many residents were caught off guard, with some being buried under the earth or hit by rocks tumbling down the hill at high speed.
For Petasha Loruma and David Yopakabel, life will never be the same again after they each lost three family members to the horrific landslides that struck Nyarkulian village.
Mr Loruma escaped death narrowly and was found unconscious on top of the displaced mounds of soil, while his mother, wife, and child were buried alive.
Mr Yopakabel's neighbour, Mr Loruma, was too distraught to speak after losing three children, while his wife and other children escaped narrowly unhurt.
Ms Priscilla Samuel, a neighbour of the two families, described the scene as 'scary' and 'terrifying', with residents screaming for help but no one able to assist due to fear.
For Mwalimu John Kedisha, his son Cyrus Rotich died a hero, rushing out to help his neighbours despite the heavy rainfall.
Mr Rotich's body was found on Saturday morning, while his two sisters were seriously injured.
County Emergency and Response Department Director Joseph Kamashariboi said residents are in dire need of humanitarian support.
