By Staff Writer
(Nairobi, Kenya) — A sudden landslide triggered by heavy seasonal rainfall at Tsadikane Debre Mitmaq St. Mary Monastery in the Moja and Wedera district of North Shewa Zone has claimed at least 14 lives, local administrative authorities confirmed.
The tragedy occurred on Monday afternoon while pilgrims were gathered at the monastery to observe the feast of Medhane Alem (Savior of the World) and the ongoing Filseta fasting period.
According to Dagnachew Azbte, Deputy Administrator of the Moja and Wedera district and head of the Agriculture Office, intense overnight rainfall saturated the terrain surrounding the monastery’s cave entrance, causing a major rockslide and collapse directly over praying worshippers.
Seven individuals sustained injuries during the collapse. Five severely injured victims were evacuated to Debreab Referral Hospital for emergency medical treatment, while two others with minor injuries received care at the nearby Sela Dingay Health Center.
District authorities noted that natural disasters of this nature had never previously been recorded at the historical monastic site.
“We have now cordoned off the area,” Dagnachew stated, confirming active safety protocols. “Since there may be ongoing risk, worshippers are currently restricted from accessing the collapse site.”
The Moja and Wedera District Administration Council issued a statement expressing deep condolences to the families of the victims. Chief Administrator Yemanebirhan Tesfa, accompanied by security personnel and local medical teams, inspected the location to coordinate emergency response efforts and deliver administrative assistance.
Abune Qelemnǝstos, Archbishop of the North Shewa Diocese, visited the monastery to offer memorial prayers for the deceased, administer pastoral blessings to the injured, and provide Gospel teachings and comfort to the grieving community.
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