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By Andrew Mbuva
A routine water-fetching exercise turned tragic on Saturday morning after an old well caved in at Londokwe River in Thavu Village, Kathonzweni Ward, Makueni County, leaving one person dead and three others injured.
According to a statement from the Makueni County Department of Health Services, the incident occurred as residents were drawing water from the decades-old well when it suddenly collapsed, trapping several people.
The County Emergency Response Team, accompanied by an ambulance, was swiftly dispatched to the scene. Four individuals were rescued and rushed to Makueni County Referral Hospital (MCRH) for emergency treatment. Sadly, one of the victims succumbed to injuries upon arrival at the facility.
“The other three are in stable condition and receiving medical attention,” said Joyce M. Mutua, the County Executive Committee Member for Health Services. She added that medical teams at MCRH had conducted interventions including wound management, pain control, and radiological examinations to ensure the wellbeing of the survivors.
Rescue operations at the site continued through the afternoon as emergency teams worked with community members to determine if additional victims might still be trapped. A standby ambulance and emergency personnel remained at the scene to offer further assistance if needed.
The Department of Health extended condolences to the bereaved family and commended residents for their quick response in helping to save lives.
“We commend the community members who played a vital role in saving lives for their swift response and cooperation,” the statement read.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and to report any unsafe water sources or emergency incidents via the County Emergency Hotline: 0741 116 657.
