Landslide in Murang’a Claims Six Lives, Including a Family

MURANG’A—A devastating landslide struck Kiganjo village in the Gitugi ward of Mathioya Sub County on Sunday night, resulting in the deaths of six people, among them two adults, a youth, and three minors. The landslide impacted three homes and devastated approximately three acres of land during the incident at 11 p.m.

According to Kenya News Agency, the landslide also led to the deaths of several livestock and took place near a previous landslide site from four years ago. The rescue operations, led by the Red Cross and local residents, were significantly hampered by ongoing heavy rains.

Immaculate Iteba, the County Red Cross Coordinator, stressed the severity of the situation and advised the community to seek safer ground. “It’s unfortunate, as we have removed six bodies from the scene. I urge the local residents to move to the Mutito Polytechnic compound, as they will be provided with safe shelter,” said Iteba.

Local official Edwin Mwangi, the Gitugi Member of County Assembly (MCA), highlighted ongoing efforts with the county government to relocate those in landslide-prone areas to prevent further tragedies. “We had an ugly incident which we would not like to witness again. I have gotten in touch with the governor, and plans to move every person who is likely to be affected by the landslides are underway,” he remarked.

Community response was quick, though hampered by what was perceived as a slow official reaction to the crisis. Stephen Kimani, a resident involved in the rescue efforts, voiced his disappointment with the local government’s emergency services. “This is my home area, and we have never seen such a thing. We are asking our governor to think about our needs as the emergency response team delayed showing up at the scene. Losing such a number in one night is so disheartening, and it has left a section of the locals in fear and distress,” Kimani explained.