Residents of Kaptanya Sub County and East division in Kapchorwa district are living in fear following the expansion of the cracks in Chepkerer valley rock. The rock is threatening to fall apart threatening the safety of over 100 families.
Emmanuel Labu, the LC III Chairperson of East division where the rock is found has called for government intervention to find a solution to the rock, which has the potential to roll down and cause disaster once it falls apart.
Geoffrey Tweituk, the LC I chairperson of Sisitya village in Kaptanya Sub County, says that currently, they can’t cultivate their gardens near the cliff since it is risky.
Tonny Chemei, a resident of Kok cell Siron Ward in East division has asked the government to consider their pleas, saying the place is currently a no go zone.
Scovia Chepkurui Nelly, the Kapchorwa District Environment Officer, says that they have written to the Prime minister’s office to come up with a solution, saying that the rock keeps extending to the lower side and may roll down anytime.
Cycles of hot and cold temperatures make rocks expand and contract. Rain may freeze and expand cracks in the rock.