Narok Governor Patrick Ntutu has confirmed that two young men were swept away by raging floodwaters while attempting to cross River Mara.
In a statement on Thursday, February 26, he said the tragic incident occurred at Mara Rianta, where the victims reportedly tried to drive across the swollen river before their vehicle was overpowered by the fast-moving waters.
“The two, who were residents of Kirindon in Kimintet Ward, were returning home from Mara Rianta when the unfortunate incident occurred. Our County Disaster Response Team is currently at the scene coordinating efforts to retrieve the bodies and recover the vehicle wreckage,” he said.
Ntutu described the incident as a painful reminder of the dangers associated with attempting to cross flooded waterways, especially during the ongoing rainy season.
“This tragic incident serves as a painful reminder of the grave dangers posed by swollen rivers during the rainy season. I urge all residents to exercise extreme caution and to refrain from attempting to cross flooded rivers or bridges, regardless of how passable they may appear,” he added.
Ntutu added that he was engaging relevant authorities to find a lasting solution to prevent future tragedies at the crossing point.
“I am engaging the relevant authorities to urgently address the longstanding concern regarding the elevation of the Mara Rianta Bridge, which has repeatedly claimed lives during periods of heavy rainfall. We must take decisive and proactive measures to prevent such heartbreaking losses in the future,” he further said.
Ntutu conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased and the wider community affected by the tragedy.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and the entire Kimintet community during this difficult and trying time,” he concluded.
