One Dead, Two Hospitalized After Suspected Chemical Poisoning in Narok Farming Incident
Narok, Kenya
A suspected case of farm chemical poisoning in Narok South has claimed the life of a 32-year-old man and left two others hospitalized, prompting local health and security officials to launch a full-scale investigation into the use of herbicides on agricultural farms in the region.
The incident occurred in the Katakala area of Narok South Sub-County, where ten farm workers had reportedly been contracted to spray chemicals over several days. Among the victims is Phinehas Muturi, who succumbed to severe chemical-related complications just hours after admission to the Narok County Referral Hospital on Monday.
Severe Reactions Signal Chemical Contamination
According to the initial police report, Muturi and another worker, Peter Macharia (36), arrived at the hospital exhibiting alarming symptoms including chest and throat pain, respiratory distress, jaundice, and what authorities described as “visible body corrosion.” Macharia remains in critical condition.
A third individual, Daniel Maina (35), was admitted later on Wednesday with similar symptoms but is currently in stable condition. Maina provided crucial information during his statement, revealing that he and nine others were spraying unknown chemicals on a farm owned by a Mr. Chirchir under the supervision of one Mr. Joseph.
Victims Sprayed Chemicals Over Four-Day Period
According to Maina’s account, the team began working on Tuesday, April 15, and completed the spraying by Friday, April 18. Health concerns began surfacing almost immediately, with Maina initially seeking help at Ereteti Dispensary before his condition deteriorated and required advanced medical care.
The Narok Central Sub-County Coordinator for Disease Surveillance and Response, Dennis Kipunel, confirmed the nature of the symptoms and raised alarm about potential toxic exposure from improper handling or use of agricultural chemicals.
Authorities Launch Investigations Into Chemical Safety
The Narok South Police Department has initiated investigations to determine the specific substances used during the farm operation and whether the workers were provided with adequate safety training or protective gear.
“This is a serious public health and labor safety concern,” said one investigator familiar with the case. “We’re working to identify the chemical agents involved and assess whether negligence or malpractice was at play.”
While the identities of the remaining farm workers involved in the spraying have not been publicly disclosed, authorities are expected to interview all individuals connected to the farm and the supervising staff.
Growing Concerns Over Pesticide Safety in Kenya
This tragedy adds to a growing list of incidents highlighting the dangers of improper pesticide and herbicide use in Kenyan agriculture, particularly in rural areas where regulatory oversight is often minimal. Health experts have repeatedly warned about the risks posed by exposure to unlabelled or counterfeit chemicals commonly used on farms.
As the investigation continues, the community of Katakala and beyond awaits answers—and action—to ensure this tragedy does not repeat itself.
