By Lisa Nyambura
Health Permanent Secretary Mary Muthoni has cautioned Kenyans against visiting Makuku sub-location in Makueni County, where a mysterious object fell from the sky on December 30, 2024.
In a statement dated January 4, 2025, Muthoni stated that while preliminary investigations indicate no immediate threat to public health, the public should avoid the area and refrain from handling the object or any unfamiliar materials nearby.
“The Ministry of Health advises the public to avoid the area where the object was found and refrain from handling any unknown materials,” the PS emphasized.
The Kenya Space Agency identified the object as part of space debris, describing it as a metallic ring measuring 2.5 meters in diameter and weighing approximately 500 kilograms.
Witnesses reported a loud bang before discovering the object.
Although no injuries were reported, images circulating on social media showed residents handling the object barehanded.
The Ministry has since provided protocols for managing potential exposure to hazardous substances and is offering psychological support to affected residents.
The government is developing a policy to address future chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear hazards.
Muthoni reassured Kenyans that the Ministry remains committed to safeguarding public health and safety.
Investigations into the incident and its environmental impact are ongoing.
