Bomet records sharp drop in drowning cases amid safety awareness campaigns

Bomet County has recorded a significant drop in drowning incidents, which have fallen from 43 cases last year to 16 in 2025, according to data released by the Bomet Disaster Management department.

Stanley Mutai, the Bomet County Disaster Management Officer, validated these impressive figures, attributing the successful reduction to improved public knowledge and personal accountability.

Mutai noted that major rivers of Bomet county including the Amalo, Nyongores, and Kipsonoi have historically been dangerous, particularly when water levels surge during the rainy seasons like experienced now.

This year, however, he praised residents for their caution, which resulted in fewer tragedies and thus encouraging them to exercise more caution in order to reduce the numbers to zero.

"Our main rivers, including Amalo, Nyongores, and Kipsonoi, have historically claimed the lives of residents, especially during the rainy seasons when water levels surge but this year we have recorded a lower number and we must appreciate residents on their responsibility," Mutai told Bomet Newswire.

He highlighted that most fatalities happen when people attempt to cross flooded bridges, with many of the victims being under the influence of alcohol.

"Despite heavy rains causing our rivers to overflow, people continue to cross, unnecessarily putting their lives at risk," Mutai emphasized.

To ensure this progress continues, Mutai urged all residents to exercise extreme caution and stay away from swollen rivers during the current rainy season.

He projected that the expected October to December rains will cause rivers and dams to accumulate significant amounts of water, necessitating vigilance to prevent further drownings.

“The rains expected from October to December will see our dams and rivers collecting a lot of water and therefore, we must be cautious in order to avoid drowning cases,” Mutai said.

Mutai further disclosed that four deaths have been reported at a dam located near Meregi Technical Training Institute (TTI) in Bomet East.

He stated that police are investigating the cases, suggesting that stress may be a factor among students. He urged both students and the public to seek help and discuss their mental health struggles to prevent potential suicides.

“We have recorded four cases so far at a dam around Meregi TTI and the police are investigating the issues, " Mutai said.

He added, “Some of the students might be stressed and I urge them to open up in order to avoid such cases that can make them commit suicide.”