Several tragic incidents have been reported across Kenya, raising concerns about the safety of individuals during adverse weather conditions and the growing mental health crisis.
In Trans Nzoia County, a 66-year-old woman, Beatrice Kunikina, tragically lost her life after being struck by lightning. The incident occurred on October 1, 2025, during a heavy rainstorm in Ndege Village. Kunikina was preparing supper in her kitchen when the lightning struck, causing her to die instantly. Local authorities have moved her body to Kijana Wamalwa Referral Hospital Mortuary for autopsy, while residents have called for the installation of protective gadgets to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
In a separate incident, a mentally ill man in Oyugis, Homa Bay County, was killed after provoking a swarm of bees. The man, whose name has not been disclosed, approached a beehive, triggering an attack by the bees that led to his death. The tragic event occurred on the same day, October 1, 2025, and his body was later moved to the mortuary.
Meanwhile, a heartbreaking drowning incident occurred in Buruburu, Nairobi. A one-year-old girl drowned in a bucket of water outside her house while under the care of her grandmother. The child had been playing outside when the unfortunate event took place. Despite efforts by a relative to revive her, the girl was declared dead upon arrival at Mama Lucy Hospital. The family is awaiting an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.
In Elgeyo Marakwet County, a 25-year-old man, Charles Kabiru Njenga, was found dead under unclear circumstances. He was discovered in his brother’s house at the Elgeyo Forest Station, with no immediate explanation for his death. Authorities are conducting an investigation, and the body has been moved to the mortuary pending an autopsy.
These incidents have prompted further discussions on the rising rates of suicide and mental health struggles in the country. Experts suggest that factors like financial struggles, depression, substance misuse, and academic failures are contributing to an increase in suicides, particularly among men. The government and various organizations are now focusing on efforts to address the issue and provide better mental health support to those in need.
