Kitui South incoming MP Hon. Gladys Mami Kivoto on Saturday, May 2, 2026 joined family members, leaders and hundreds of mourners during the burial ceremony of the late Elizabeth Kaviti Maithya at Kakuyuni Village, Ilamba Sub-location, Ngali area in Kanziku/Simisi Ward.

The late Elizabeth Kaviti tragically lost her life after she was attacked and killed by an elephant while returning home from her shop, in an incident that has once again highlighted the growing human-wildlife conflict in Kitui South.

Kaviti, who was a pastor at WPC Church Ngali and a businesswoman, was eulogised as a selfless, hardworking and devoted woman who dedicated her life to serving both the church and the community.

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Speaking during the burial ceremony, Hon. Gladys Kivoto deep concern over the increasing cases of elephants invading farms, destroying crops and attacking and killing innocent residents, questioning for how long residents of Mutha, Kanziku and Kasaala would continue living in fear of deadly elephant invasions. “For how long will our people continue struggling and dying because of elephants? Families are living in fear every day while others are counting losses after their farms are destroyed,” Something urgent must be done.” she said

Hon. Mami Kivoto called upon the relevant authorities including wildlife agencies and the national government, to take immediate action by ensuring the fencing of the South Kitui Game Reserve to prevent elephants from straying into villages and farms.

She noted that residents of Kanziku and the larger Kitui South constituency have for years struggled with frequent elephant invasions that continue to threaten lives and livelihoods.

Hon. Mami Kivoto together with other County officials led by Hon. Mwangu Ivuti also delivered Governor Dr. Julius Malombe’s message of condolence to the family and gave financial support of Ksh. 75,000 to assist the family.

She was accompanied by Finance CECM Peter Mwikya Kilonzo, Chief Officer for Tourism Ferdinand Kathenge, Chief Officer for Livestock and Apiculture Benjamin Kyambi, and Political Advisor to the Governor Hon. Mwangu Ivuti.

The tragic death of Elizabeth Kaviti Maithya has renewed calls for urgent intervention and long-term solutions to the persistent human-wildlife conflict affecting communities living near South Kitui Game reserve.

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