This archive report was first published on 16 December 2019.
On December 15, 2019, a tragic incident occurred in Baringo County, where three people died and 14 others were hospitalized after consuming contaminated githeri at a farm in Ilmaine village, Marigat sub-county.
According to reports, the victims were among 17 people who fell ill after eating the contaminated meal, which was a mix of maize and beans. The incident has left the community in shock, with many seeking answers and demanding action against those found responsible.
Marigat Assistant County Commissioner Austin Ochieng confirmed the deaths, stating that the three victims died at Kabarnet Hospital while undergoing treatment. Four of the victims have been referred to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret for further treatment.
Two suspects are currently in police custody, assisting with investigations. Samples of the contaminated food have been taken to government laboratories for testing to determine whether the meal was poisoned.
Among those arrested is a farm manager where the 17 victims were working. The incident has also raised concerns about the safety of minors working on the farm, with some reports indicating that some of the victims were minors.
Benson Lemonoi, a relative of one of the victims, expressed shock and grief over the incident, stating that most of those affected were school-going children, including class eight pupils and Form Two students.
"Most of those affected are school-going children among them class eight pupils and Form Two students," Lemonoi said.
Emmanuel Erina, another local, demanded action against those found culpable, saying, "We are seeking answers and demanding action be taken against those responsible."
Baringo County Commissioner Henry Wafula has assured the public that the police are working to determine the cause of the incident and will take action against those responsible.
"I have directed police to do their work as we wait for the results. We are interested in knowing what happened and action will be taken against those responsible," Wafula said.
