Veteran journalist Kitavi Mutua passed away on Friday night at Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) due to complications arising from a snakebite at his home in Kitui South. Mutua, a former Nation Media Group correspondent in Kitui county, had been receiving treatment for a week after being bitten by a venomous snake while sleeping. His condition deteriorated, and he was admitted to the hospital's Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where he succumbed to the injuries.
Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) leader Kalonzo Musyoka paid tribute to Mutua, describing him as a distinguished journalist and a son of Ukambani. Musyoka recalled their longstanding friendship and noted that Mutua had played a significant role in mentoring young reporters. He also disclosed that Mutua had been assisting him in writing his second autobiography, which remains unfinished.
Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua expressed grief over Mutua's death, describing him as a professional colleague, friend, and accomplished media practitioner. Wambua noted that Mutua's wisdom and contribution to journalism would be deeply missed. He conveyed his condolences to Mutua's family, former colleagues at Nation Media Group, and everyone who knew him.
Mutua was a long-serving correspondent for Nation Media Group, covering political, social, and economic developments in Kitui County and the wider Ukambani region. He left the media organisation about two years ago to venture into private business. During his career, Mutua reported extensively on politics, healthcare, agriculture, and environmental issues, helping audiences across the country understand developments in the region.
Other leaders who joined the growing list of mourners include former Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu and Kitui Woman Representative Irene Kasalu. They described Mutua as a dedicated journalist and a son of Kitui who contributed significantly to the region's media landscape.
Kalonzo Musyoka conveyed his condolences to Mutua's family, former colleagues, and everyone who knew him. He valued Mutua's contribution to journalism and noted that his work brought the region's affairs to national attention. Musyoka described Mutua as a dedicated journalist who reported on various issues affecting the region.
The journalist's death has sent shockwaves to the media fraternity and the region he served. His legacy as a distinguished journalist and mentor will be remembered by many. Key leaders continue to send condolences to his family and colleagues.
Key points
- Veteran journalist Kitavi Mutua died on Friday night at Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital due to complications from a snakebite.
- Kalonzo Musyoka described Mutua as a distinguished journalist and a son of Ukambani whose work brought the region's affairs to national attention.
- Mutua had been assisting Kalonzo Musyoka in writing his second autobiography, which remains unfinished.
