Iten-Kabarnet Road Reopens Following Landslide Blockage

The Kenya National Highways Authority has officially reopened the Iten-Kabarnet Road to traffic following a period of disruption caused by a landslide.

Engineers and recovery teams were deployed to the affected section near Kolol after heavy rainfall across the country triggered earth movements that blocked the arterial route.

In a public notice issued on April 29, 2026, KeNHA Director General Eng. Luka Kimeli confirmed that the debris has been cleared, allowing for the restoration of vehicle movement.

The landslide occurred amidst a season of intense precipitation that has challenged infrastructure stability in several parts of the Rift Valley region.

While the road is now passable, the authority has issued a stern advisory to all motorists using the route.

Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution, particularly when navigating the winding sections near the Kerio Valley escarpment, where the ground remains saturated.

KeNHA noted that traffic marshals and police officers remain stationed at key points to manage the flow of vehicles.

Motorists must strictly adhere to instructions issued by these officials to ensure safety as the local environment continues to stabilize.

The closure of the Iten-Kabarnet Road typically forces commuters to use longer, alternative routes through Eldoret or Nyaru, adding significant travel time for those moving between Elgeyo Marakwet and Baringo counties.

Restoring this link is seen as a priority for regional trade and daily transit.

In the official statement, the highways authority expressed gratitude to the public for the patience shown during the clearing operations.

Ongoing monitoring of the area is expected to continue, given the unpredictable nature of the current weather patterns and the history of rockfalls in the Kolol area.

The authority continues to monitor other vulnerable points across the national road network as President Ruto's administration coordinates multi-agency responses to the ongoing rains.

Travelers are encouraged to check for official updates before embarking on journeys through hilly terrain during the rainy season.