14 learners among dead in Marakwet landslide 

Fourteen learners are among confirmed fatalities in Saturday’s devastating landslide in Elgeyo Marakwet County.

The revelations come as the government scrambles to ensure that candidates in the affected region sit for the ongoing national exams.

Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok confirmed that candidates in 28 primary and secondary schools directly affected by the landslide and related floods will be able to sit for Kenya Junior Secondary Education assessment (KJSEA) and the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE).

Speaking at the Westlands Deputy County Commissioner’s officers after witnessing the opening of containers holding theory KCSE papers which kicked off today, the PS said helicopters, all-terrain vehicles and other logistics have been assembled to distribute and retrieve exams.

“As government, we have mobilized all resources necessary to ensure that affected candidates can continue their examinations without interruption. We have made adequate arrangements to ensure that no candidate is disadvantaged because of weather conditions or the recent disaster,” he said.

He said the Ministry was working closely with that of Interior, other state agencies and the county government to evacuate affected families including candidates and providing alternative exam centers for KCSE and the last of KJSEA paper.At least three bridges were destroyed in the landslide effectively cutting off schools from access to exam containers.

The heavy rains pounding the area have directly or indirectly affected 1,867 candidates in both junior and senior schools.

The PS who later visited the area affected by the tragedy regretted the incident that has claimed at least 28 lives and said the government will extend support to affected institutions.

“We are saddened by the loss of young lives in Marakwet East. It is an immense tragedy, and we extend our deepest condolences to the affected families.”

Bitok further expressed satisfaction with the ongoing administration of national examinations across the country.

“Today marks the start of the English paper, which is the first major KCSE paper. I’m pleased to report that all containers were opened on time and exams dispatched without incident. We will deliver a credible and secure examination process.”