Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) Leader Kalonzo Musyoka on Sunday expressed his condolences on the death of seasoned journalist Kitavi Mutua, describing him as a friend who was working on his second autobiography. Kitavi died at the Kenyatta University Teaching and Referral Hospital on Friday while receiving treatment for snake venom. He had been bitten by a snake a week earlier. Kalonzo remembered Kitavi as a journalist who spoke truth to power and covered social justice issues across the country.
Kalonzo Musyoka termed the loss of Kitavi a big blow to him, the country, and the media fraternity. He urged county governments to ensure proper care and availability of drugs to deal with incidences such as snake bites. Kitavi's death has sent shockwaves through the media industry, with many leaders and colleagues paying tribute to his work and legacy. Former Makueni Governor Prof. Kivutha Kibwana was among those who mourned Kitavi, describing him as a prolific writer whose contributions graced the Daily Nation and several other platforms.
Prof. Kivutha Kibwana said it is heartbreaking to lose a young man whose gift with words touched many. He noted that Kitavi Mutua was not just a friend but a talented writer whose pen had so much more to give. Kibwana added that Kitavi's journey was cut painfully short, leaving many to mourn the loss of a promising talent. Kitavi's death has highlighted the risks faced by journalists and the public in dealing with snake bites, particularly in rural areas.
According to a report by the Kenya News Agency (KNA), snakebite is the leading Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) in Kitui County. A total of 1,939 cases were reported by victims who sought treatment at health facilities across the vast county between 2020 and 2024. The snakebite envenoming is prevalent mostly in Kitui South, Mwingi North, Mwingi Central, and Kitui East areas. This has raised concerns about the need for increased awareness and prevention measures to mitigate the impact of snake bites.
Kitavi Mutua's death has sparked a conversation about the challenges faced by journalists in their line of duty. As a journalist who covered social justice issues, Kitavi often put himself in harm's way to get the story. His colleagues and leaders have praised his bravery and commitment to telling the stories that needed to be told. The media fraternity is still reeling from the shock of his passing.
The government and county governments have been urged to take action to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. This includes ensuring that health facilities have the necessary equipment and drugs to treat snake bites. Additionally, there is a need for public awareness campaigns to educate people on how to prevent snake bites and what to do in case of an emergency.
Kitavi Mutua's legacy will live on through his work, which touched many lives. His friends and colleagues will remember him for his gift with words and his commitment to telling the stories that mattered. As the country mourns his passing, there is a renewed call for action to address the challenges faced by journalists and the public in dealing with snake bites and other neglected tropical diseases.
Key points
- Kitavi Mutua died from snake venom at Kenyatta University Teaching and Referral Hospital after being bitten by a snake a week earlier.
- Kalonzo Musyoka and Prof. Kivutha Kibwana were among those who mourned Kitavi, describing him as a talented writer and a friend.
- Snakebite is the leading Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) in Kitui County, with 1,939 cases reported between 2020 and 2024.
