Over 100 medics flee Kerio Valley after local church shuts hospital

More than 100 healthcare workers have pulled out of Kerio Valley following the closure of missionary activities by the Catholic Church, including operations at Chesongoch Mission Hospital, due to escalating insecurity in the region.

Chesongoch Mission Hospital, the area’s primary health facility and the largest employer of health professionals, has been a lifeline for thousands of locals.

Its closure has left a significant healthcare gap.

Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wesley Rotich expressed concern over the situation, assuring residents that efforts were underway to stabilize the region.

"We are collaborating with the national government to restore peace and security so normalcy can return,” he told the Star.

The Missionary Benedictine Sisters officially announced the suspension of their work in Kerio Valley, citing insecurity as the key reason.

They noted that the fatal shooting of Fr. Allois Bett, allegedly by armed bandits, had triggered ongoing instability that had hampered their operations.

"Our sisters have been under immense emotional, mental, and psychological strain due to the persistent insecurity," the statement read.

The mission also acknowledged that they could no longer run essential services as staff continued to flee the area for safety.

The mission has announced the indefinite suspension of its operations in the region, citing safety concerns.

The directive, signed by Sr Rosa Pascal the head of the mission takes effect immediately.

Sr Pascal stated that the decision was aimed at protecting the lives of the sisters stationed in the area, mission staff, and members of the public who visit the stations for different services.

"We are also using this step to urge the government to take firm action in restoring peace, including initiating civilian disarmament," she added.

She noted that the closure also serves as a wake-up call to the local community in Kerio Valley about the mission’s value and contribution.

"If the community doesn’t see the importance of our presence, then we must reconsider our role here," she remarked.

The development follows the killing of Fr Bett, who was based at St Mulumba Parish near Tot.

He was ambushed and fatally shot while returning from a community Mass.

His death has intensified fear among residents, especially after reports emerged that bandits were deliberately targeting individuals from outside the region.

Fr Bett’s funeral is scheduled for Tuesday at Ol Lessos Parish in Nandi County.