Kitui County Woman Representative aspirant Hon. Dr. Rhodah Kithuku has called on residents to exercise caution and avoid crossing flooded rivers, citing increased cases of drowning during the ongoing April-May rainy season.

Speaking while attending a burial ceremony at Kwa Ngindu in Kyangwithya East Ward, Dr. Kithuku expressed concern over the increasing number of drowning incidents reported across the county. She noted that several lives have already been lost after individuals attempted to cross rivers that had overflowed due to heavy rains.

Her remarks come in the wake of recent tragic incidents, including the death of a middle-aged man from Ikanga who was swept away by the flooded Nzeau River while attempting to cross. In a separate case, a bodaboda rider from Mutonguni lost his life after being carried away by the raging waters of Ithekethe River. “I have received reports of at least two cases of people drowning in flooded rivers. I am aware of a case in Ikanga where a man was swept away by River Nzeau on Monday and another case of a bodaboda rider from Mutonguni who was swept away by River Ithekethe a few days ago. These incidents are both tragic and preventable,” she said.

She also called on parents to closely monitor their children and ensure that they do not play near flooded rivers or stagnant water, noting that minors are especially vulnerable due to their limited awareness of the dangers. “I urge parents to be extra vigilant with their children, as they may not fully understand the risks posed by these waters,” she added.

YOU MISSED: Middle-aged Man Swept Away by Flooded Nzeau River in Ikanga/Kyatune Ward

In addition, Dr. Kithuku advised motorists and bodaboda operators to exercise extreme caution on the roads and avoid attempting to drive or ride through flooded rivers. She stressed that such actions often lead to unnecessary loss of life and urged road users to prioritize safety over convenience.

As heavy rains continue to pound various parts of Kitui County, leaders and authorities are increasingly raising alarm over the dangers posed by swollen rivers, calling for collective responsibility in safeguarding lives during this period.

Ends///