Elgeyo Marakwet families displaced by the devastating 2025 Chesongoch mudslide have received new homes in a major milestone aimed at restoring livelihoods and rebuilding the affected community.
First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, and Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich joined residents in Chesongoch, Marakwet East, for the handover of more than 50 housing units constructed for victims of the disaster that claimed over 30 lives and destroyed homes and livelihoods.
Speaking during the event, Rachel Ruto said the housing project marks a new beginning for the affected families.
“The handover of 53 houses to families affected by the devastating October 2025 mudslide in Chesongoch marks a renewed chapter of hope after a tragedy that claimed more than 30 lives and destroyed homes and livelihoods,” the First Lady said.
Chesongoch Resource Centre
She noted that beyond providing shelter, stakeholders had also laid the foundation for a Chesongoch Resource Centre and ICT Hub, which is expected to create opportunities for women and young people in the area.
“Through unity and compassion, we are restoring dignity and helping communities move forward,” she added.
Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Rotich said the county government and its partners had successfully delivered 55 housing units, with two already handed over to beneficiaries in Kibendo, Emsoo Ward.
“The affected families can now live in dignity like the rest,” the governor said while thanking Kenyans, development partners and professionals from Elgeyo Marakwet who contributed to the recovery efforts.
On his part, CS Murkomen described the initiative as a significant step in restoring hope and building resilience among communities affected by disasters.
“Rebuilding lives after a disaster means restoring hope, securing communities and creating a foundation for a better future,” the Interior CS said.
Kerio Valley enhance safety and sustainability
In addition to the housing project, Murkomen said the government, working with the First Lady’s Foundation and other stakeholders, was implementing a long-term environmental restoration programme in Kerio Valley to enhance safety and sustainability.
The newly launched Chesongoch Resource Centre is set to house a modern library, ICT village hub and social hall among other facilities aimed at empowering residents and expanding access to education and economic opportunities.
The October 2025 mudslide left dozens of families homeless and triggered a humanitarian response from both state and non-state actors, culminating in the construction of the new housing units officially handed over this week.
