KIRINYAGA COUNTY, Kenya — What was meant to be a quiet Sunday picnic turned tragic for a family in Kimbimbi, Mwea East, when their 15-year-old daughter slipped into the waters of River Nyamindi and never resurfaced.
The teenager, whose name has not been publicly released, drowned at the scenic Gatitika Waterfalls a local attraction that draws dozens every weekend.
“She was with her friend when she fell into the river,” her father, Danson Njue, said quietly as he stood near the riverbank, surrounded by concerned neighbours and relatives. “They were just having fun. It happened so fast.”
Since the accident on Sunday evening, villagers from Kimbimbi, Mathangauta, Ngucue, and Gatitika have been keeping vigil by the river. Many joined in the search, hoping to recover the girl’s body.
“It’s heartbreaking. We’ve been here day and night. No sign yet,” said one local, her voice strained with exhaustion.
Benson Gachoki, an elder from Gatitika village, explained how popular the area has become. “More than 100 young people come here every Sunday from Kirinyaga and other counties. It’s a beautiful place,” he said. “This is the first time something like this has happened at the falls.”
But beneath the natural beauty, the river has deep and unpredictable spots especially dangerous after rains.
With no official rescue team on site, the family and locals are now pleading with authorities to intervene.
“We need help. We’ve tried everything,” said Njue. “We ask the county government and the national disaster team to come and support us.”
