04/09/2026
Today, I joined the family of Mutemi Mala of Kalusi Village, Voo/Kyamatu Ward, Kitui East, to condole with them following the heartbreaking loss of their three children: Mwazia Mutemi, a Grade 8 pupil; Patricia Kamene, a Grade 10 student; and Angela Mutemi, a Grade 4 pupil.
The children are reported to have consumed maize contaminated with aflatoxin. This tragedy is even more painful considering the challenges families are currently facing in accessing healthcare amid the ongoing nurses’ strike. At such moments, our health facilities need adequate personnel to respond quickly and provide the care that affected families desperately need.
Losing three children from one family is an unimaginable tragedy. I extend my deepest condolences to the Mutemi family, their relatives, friends, teachers and the entire Voo/Kyamatu community. May God give the family strength, comfort and courage during this difficult period, and may the souls of Mwazia, Patricia and Angela rest in eternal peace.
This heartbreaking incident should also remind us of the urgent need for food safety, stronger public health systems and accessible emergency healthcare for every family in our communities.