Man drowns at a waterfall in Kirinyaga while swimming

A 27-year-old man tragically drowned while swimming with friends at Wanyiba Falls on the Rwamuthambi River in Kagio, Mutithi Ward, Mwea-West Sub-County, Kirinyaga County.

According to witnesses, a group of four friends were swimming around 3 p.m. on Wednesday when the incident occurred.

“We were all having fun, as we’ve swum here before, but suddenly, our friend Peter Muhia, 27, called out for help. Despite our best efforts, we couldn’t save him,” Patrick Muchoki; his friend recounted.

Family members, have gathered by the river, voicing concerns about the dangers posed by the high water levels at Wanyiba Falls, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.

“We are pleading for help to recover Peter’s body so that we can give him a proper burial,” said one family member.

“We’ve been searching around Wanyiba Falls, but hope is fading. My aunt even stayed here overnight, though we’ve already reported the incident to Kiamaciri Police Station,” said Peter’s brother.

Residents highlighted that this is not the first tragedy at Wanyiba Falls. On March 18, 2024, a body of an army officer was discovered by locals to fetching water.