One dead as landslides hit Kangema and Mathioya in Murang’a

Heavy rains pounding several parts of the country have triggered devastating floods and landslides in Murang’a County, leaving one person dead, hundreds displaced, and widespread destruction of property reported across several areas.

According to a statement by the Ministry of Interior, the most severe impact has been recorded in Kangema and Mathioya constituencies, where persistent rainfall has destabilised the terrain, causing deadly landslides and forcing families to flee their homes.

"In the Central region, Kangema and Mathioya have recorded incidences of landslides which have unfortunately led to the loss of one life and destruction of property," the statement said.

The ministry said the fatal incident occurred in the Ngutu area within Gitugi Ward, where one person lost their life after a landslide swept through the area.

The ongoing rains have also displaced approximately 200 households in the area, with affected families set to be relocated to safer grounds as fears grow over the possibility of further landslides.

Authorities warned that the area remains highly vulnerable due to continued rainfall and unstable soil conditions.

“Heavy rains continue to negatively impact various parts of the country with floods and landslides posing greater risks to lives and property,” the Ministry said.

It further noted that in Gitugi Ward, areas including Karung’e, Kanjahi and Kahwai had earlier been affected by landslides, leaving behind destruction and displacement.

"Families have also been displaced and property destroyed by the landslides in Gaikime, Kiagima Kiambuthia, Kagioini and Kora areas of Kiru Ward," the statement added.

According to the statement, more than 200 people were affected by the landslides in various parts of Kiru Ward.

One of the structures destroyed during the disaster was Kamagogo Full Gospel Church, which the ministry said was flattened by the landslide.

In Kamacharia Ward, at least one family in the Wahundura area was displaced after their home and property of unknown value were destroyed.

Property destroyed in the affected areas included land, houses, domestic animals, and household items.

The continued rainfall has raised fears of more destruction in vulnerable areas, especially in regions characterised by steep slopes and loose soils.

The ministry appealed to residents to immediately report any signs of soil movement to local administrators and disaster management officials.

“We appeal for vigilance and reporting of any signs of soil movement, ground cracks or weakened structures to local administrators and disaster management teams,” the statement added.