Man dies as Kirinyaga residents clash over water

One person died in Kirinyaga County Wednesday evening after confrontations between two factions over the usage of Rupingazi River water.

The residents of South Gariama and Mumbu-ini village are said to have differed over the usage of the river which is a major source of water in the area.

The deceased, Mzee Ngare, is said to have collapsed and died during the protests.

The body was removed to Embu Hospital Mortuary awaiting an autopsy.

With the current water shortage in most parts of the country, Rupingazi is the only water source for these residents. They now want legal action taken against those obstructing them from fetching water.

Ikulungu chief, Simon Muthike, said that it took the intervention of the elders to calm down the warring factions.

Mr Muthike said that police have launched investigations into the death of Mzee Ngare and those found culpable will be held accountable.

Other areas experiencing acute water shortage include Kwale, Mombasa, Nairobi, North Eastern, Eastern, and parts of Rift Valley.

Water levels at Ndakaini dam have drastically dropped over the last two months leading to rationing in the city.

Written by Ann Mukuru