Kitui County Farmer Dies After Accidentally Slipping Into Farm Pond in Mwingi East
In Kitui County’s Mwingi East subcounty, a 48-year-old farmer and businessman, Kasele Nthenge, tragically drowned on Friday after slipping into a farm pond in his village of Nuu. The incident, confirmed by the local Assistant County Commissioner, occurred as Nthenge was working to modify the pond’s water flow.
Attempt to Block Water Outlet Ends in Fatal Accident
According to reports, Nthenge was adjusting the pond’s spillway around 4 p.m. when he lost his footing on the polythene pond lining, slipping and falling into the water. The pond was full to the brim following heavy rains that had swept through the region over the past 24 hours. His intent was to create a new water outlet at a higher level, allowing the pond to collect more water for irrigation purposes.
The Assistant County Commissioner explained that Nthenge, known for his successful watermelon farming, had been planning to secure additional water to sustain his crops through the dry season. “He was committed to farming and aimed to collect enough water to continue irrigating his watermelon fields once the rains subsided,” the official stated.
Son Raises Alarm as Community Responds
The tragedy unfolded before Nthenge’s young son, who quickly called for help. Neighbors and other villagers rushed to the scene, but unfortunately, Nthenge had already drowned by the time they arrived. The Assistant County Commissioner, who was notified of the incident, arrived at the site alongside the local OCS to assist with the recovery of the body.
The farmer’s body was subsequently taken to the Nuu Level IV hospital for preservation as authorities and family members mourn the loss of a dedicated member of the agricultural community.
