Kenya: Death toll from landslides rises to 43

By Andrew Wasike

NAIROBI, Kenya (AA) – The death toll in landslides in Western Kenya from heavy rains has risen to 43, authorities announced on Monday.

John Lonyangapuo, governor of West Pokot Country, told reporters that many people remain unaccounted for, confirming the new death toll.

Thousands were left homeless after their homes were swept away by floods due to above-average rainfall, with meteorologists warning more rains may be in store.

President Uhuru Kenyatta said that he had directed the deployment to the affected region of resources including rescue personnel from various security and humanitarian agencies including the Kenya Defence Forces and National Police Service to guard against further loss of life.

The Kenyan leader further directed regional commissioners in flood and landslide-prone regions in the East African country to work closely with security and humanitarian teams to ensure that the public is moved to safer ground.