Government Reaffirms Support for Families Affected by Natural Disasters
Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes, Geoffrey Ruku, has emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting families impacted by natural disasters. This pledge came during a visit to the affected communities in Chesongoch, Elgeyo Marakwet County, where he was joined by First Lady Rachel Ruto and other government officials.
During the visit, CS Ruku highlighted that the government, through the State Department for Special Programmes, is determined to stand with Kenyans who are facing the consequences of natural calamities across the country. He mentioned that President William Ruto has instructed the Ministry to work closely with other ministries, government agencies, and departments to develop and implement programs aimed at helping communities adapt to the effects of disasters and climate change.
“The people of Marakwet and others affected by disasters across the country must feel that the Government of Kenya, led by President William Ruto, cares for them,” said CS Ruku.
He added that the Ministry is taking all necessary steps to ensure that affected families can be resettled, return to normalcy, and rebuild their lives in a dignified manner. The State Department will lead efforts to rebuild homes and restore livelihoods within the Marakwet community, cover hospital expenses for victims, and provide support for funeral costs to ensure a respectful send-off for those who lost their lives.
CS Ruku praised the First Lady for her compassion and leadership in ensuring that affected families received emergency relief supplies, including food and non-food items, which she personally helped distribute.
Those who lost their lives in the tragic landslide will be laid to rest on November 21, 2025. Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen also confirmed that plans are underway for compensation and resettlement to help families rebuild their lives.
At least 32 people were killed in the tragedy. “I want to assure the people of Elgeyo Marakwet that we will not leave until this work is fully accomplished,” said Murkomen.
He further assured residents that, unlike in previous incidents, the compensation and resettlement process will be expedited to ensure timely relief for affected families. “Following the directive from the President, we do not want this process to drag on indefinitely. Within a month or two, we will finalise all procedures, close the accounts, and ensure that every victim is properly compensated and resettled,” said Murkomen.
The CS also warned individuals who might attempt to fraudulently benefit from the compensation program, stating that stern action will be taken against them.
Key Points from the Visit
- Government Commitment: The government has reaffirmed its dedication to supporting families affected by natural disasters.
- Collaboration with Ministries: The Ministry is working with various government agencies to create programs that help communities adapt to disaster impacts and climate change.
- Resettlement Efforts: Plans are in place for compensation and resettlement to assist affected families in rebuilding their lives.
- Expediting Processes: The compensation and resettlement process will be accelerated to ensure timely relief for those impacted.
- Preventing Fraud: Authorities have issued warnings against fraudulent activities related to the compensation program, with strict actions planned for offenders.