A section of the house that was covered by mudslides in Kilungu, Makueni County killing two children. Photo by Andrew Mbuva. 
By Andrew Mbuva
Residents of Kilungu in Makueni County have recounted a night of terror after a landslide triggered by heavy rains struck homes, killing two children and leaving several families displaced.
One relative said the incident occurred at around 0200hrs in the night, when a loud bang was heard.
“We heard a very big bang and impact. We rushed out of our beds and called out to the girl, as she was sleeping in her room with her children, while the older boy was in a different room. By then, mud had already broken through the window and entered the house. We tried to get in and rescue the children, but it was not possible,” the relative said.
Another witness described how the collapse originated from the roadside.
“The wall collapsed from the road and came down onto the house, trapping two children and a girl who is my cousin. I left home immediately and came straight here. By the time I arrived, the children had already been removed. I went to the scene and saw the extent of their injuries,” he said.
Kilungu MCA Joseph Mbindyo confirmed the deaths and widespread destruction across the area.
“I have visited the home and confirmed that two children have died. Many houses have been destroyed across Kilungu. In Kyale, some residents have been buried under sand and their homes damaged. In Nditikwa, near Kikoko, houses have also been destroyed. In Mwalikani, near Katulye, homes have been buried, though no injuries were reported there,” he said.
He urged residents to remain vigilant, especially at night.
“I take this opportunity to urge residents to be extremely cautious. Before going to bed, they should inspect their surroundings to ensure it is safe,” Mbindyo added.
Kaiti MP Joshua Kimilu warned that many families remain at risk due to unstable terrain.
“Many families are currently in danger because their homes are built in areas prone to landslides. I urge all residents of Kaiti—if you know your home is in a risky location, please report to your area chief immediately. We do not want to lose more lives,” he said.
Makueni Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili said the county government has initiated emergency response measures, including relocation of affected residents.
“With the rains continuing, we have activated plans to move people from high-risk areas. We have already identified St. Teresa as a temporary relocation site and are also seeking additional churches to accommodate displaced families,” she said.
Mulili added that the county government, in collaboration with the Kenya Red Cross, has mobilized food supplies and is sourcing tents to support those affected.
