Heavy rains that lashed parts of Kenya over the weekend have left a trail of destruction, including tragic incidents of electrocution and drowning. Among the most shocking incidents was the death of a horse valued at Sh350,000, which was electrocuted at Green Park, Uhuru Park, Nairobi.
The rider, who depended on the horse for his livelihood by offering paid rides, had left the animal grazing in the park on Monday afternoon while he ran errands in the city. Upon his return, he found the horse lifeless, having stepped on wet ground connected to a live wire. The wire, reportedly lying on the ground due to the heavy rains on Sunday, had created a lethal hazard.
Authorities responded swiftly, with Kenya Power officials called to the scene to disconnect the electricity supply. The horse’s carcass was later moved, pending further investigation. The incident highlights concerns over exposed power lines and electrical safety, particularly during extreme weather conditions.
Meanwhile, in Akala, Siaya County, a six-year-old boy lost his life in another tragic electrocution incident. The pupil from Akala Township Primary School was playing at home when he accidentally came into contact with an exposed live wire. Police reports indicate that the child sustained an injury on his left ear, believed to have been caused by the electrical shock. His body was taken to Bondo Sub-County Hospital mortuary for an autopsy.
The recent downpours have also led to fatal drowning incidents in Kakamega County. In Butere, a 72-year-old man, Alfred Mabango Keya, met his untimely death while bathing in Imbanda stream in Limangale village. Witnesses say he slipped into the water and drowned. His body was later retrieved and taken to the mortuary for post-mortem examination.
In another case in Navokholo, Makunga area, 43-year-old Geofrey Shisoka Ambani drowned in River Kwava in Mwichina village. The river, located about 200 meters from his home, became his death trap. His body was recovered without visible injuries and transported to Kakamega Referral Hospital mortuary for an autopsy.
These incidents underscore the dangers posed by the ongoing heavy rains, from flooding and electrocution to drowning. Authorities urge residents to exercise caution, especially around power lines and water bodies, and report any hazardous electrical faults to Kenya Power immediately to prevent further tragedies.
