Photos have emerged of a headteacher from Makueni County who is feared dead after he was swept away by raging floodwaters while heading to school during the ongoing heavy rains.
The teacher, identified as Richard Mutinda of Syiluni Primary School, is believed to have drowned after attempting to cross the swollen River Selonyi on a motorcycle.The incident happened after heavy rains pounded several parts of Makueni County, causing rivers to overflow and flood nearby roads.
According to family members, Mutinda was on his way to school when he tried to ride across the river but was overwhelmed by the strong current.
His body has not yet been found, and search efforts by residents and local authorities are still ongoing.
Relatives and neighbours have been combing the river for days, hoping to recover his body.Speaking to the media, his sister, Mercy Kioko, said the family has been searching for him for three days and is now appealing for help.
“We have been in the river for three days looking for him. As a family we are really disturbed, and we need help,” she said.
The tragedy adds to the growing number of flood-related incidents reported in several counties as heavy rains continue to hit many parts of Kenya.
Flooded rivers and damaged roads have made movement difficult in some areas.
Some affected families have also accused authorities of failing to provide clear information about people who disappeared during the floods.Many say they have been moving from one mortuary to another while searching for missing relatives.
Local leaders have urged residents to avoid crossing flooded rivers as the rains continue.