The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced the closure of the Kapyego–Chesoi–Kilangata (B15) Road after heavy rains triggered deadly mudslides in parts of Elgeyo Marakwet County.
In a notice issued on November 2, KeNHA said the road had been rendered impassable at Kilangata, Murkutwo, Chesongoch, and Kabetwa due to the torrential rainfall that caused extensive damage and loss of lives.
“These rains have led to mudslides in the Chesongoch area, leading to fatalities,” the statement read. “A multi-agency rescue mission is currently underway involving the Ministry of Interior, KeNHA, and the County Government of Elgeyo Marakwet.”
Authorities confirmed that at least 22 residents have lost their lives, while 21 others are injured and receiving treatment at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret. Rescue efforts continue, with 29 people still missing as teams search through debris and flood-affected areas.
KeNHA further reported that the vented drift across River Mon at Chesetan, along the Biretwo–Arror Road, had been overwhelmed by stormwater and collapsed, cutting off the road for about 40 metres.
The authority assured motorists that restoration efforts are ongoing:
“We are working tirelessly to access the affected sections, remove massive boulders and debris, and restore mobility,” KeNHA noted.
Motorists have been urged to avoid the affected routes and replan their journeys for safety as engineers and emergency crews work to clear the blocked sections.
The landslide, which struck around 4 a.m. on Saturday, followed several days of continuous rainfall. A coordinated emergency response involving the Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service, National Youth Service, Kenya Red Cross, and other agencies remains on-site to support rescue and recovery operations.
Authorities continue to caution residents in the region to remain vigilant as heavy rains persist.
