A nine-year-old pupil from Maraba Primary School in Mumias East has died after stepping on a live electric cable while walking to school on Tuesday morning. The cable, which had fallen along the Makunga-Maraba highway, was reportedly brought down by heavy rains on Sunday.
Ignored Warnings, Delayed Response
Local residents claim they had alerted the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) about the dangerous cables but received no immediate response. The tragic incident has sparked outrage, with many accusing the utility firm of negligence.
“KPLC is very ignorant when it comes to timely response on such deadly calls,” said a frustrated resident. “This was preventable.”
A Community in Mourning
The victim, a Grade 2 pupil, was described as bright and cheerful by grieving teachers. The school has since held a moment of silence in his memory.
Calls for Accountability
Authorities have launched an investigation, while activists demand stricter enforcement of safety measures to prevent similar tragedies. KPLC has yet to issue a formal statement.
This incident highlights the recurring dangers of poorly maintained power infrastructure, especially during Kenya’s rainy seasons. Will this tragedy finally force action.
