What began as a routine desilting task at Kwa Meru Dam in Engineer Town, Nyandarua County, ended in tragedy on Monday, June 9. Three men have tragically drowned during the operation, and the search for their bodies continues amid mounting concern over safety measures at local dams.
Highlights
- Three desilting workers are confirmed drowned at Kwa Meru Dam in Engineer Town.
- The fatal incident occurred during a routine maintenance operation.
- Rescue teams are actively searching for their bodies in the dam.
- Authorities say investigations into the cause and safety lapses are underway.
Main Story
On the morning of June 9, three men were involved in desilting activities at Kwa Meru Dam in Engineer Town. The dam, located in Nyandarua County, was undergoing routine cleaning to remove silt and debris—a common maintenance practice aimed at preserving water flow and capacity. However, what should have been a standard job turned fatal when all three men drowned.
Local rescue teams, supported by county authorities, immediately launched a search operation upon learning of the incident. Efforts to retrieve the bodies are ongoing, hampered by murky silt and deep water in the dam. Nyandarua County disaster management and local divers are coordinating the efforts.
This tragedy has reignited concerns about the safety protocols in place during dam maintenance. According to a Nation Media report on similar dams in the region, such reservoirs are “death traps” due to their slippery, mud-filled beds and lack of regular maintenance like desilting and fencing. Experts warn that black cotton soil causes workers to sink quickly and get trapped, making rescue efforts extremely difficult (nation.africa).
Authorities from Nyandarua County have pledged to investigate the incident. They’re expected to probe whether safety guidelines were followed, including the availability of life jackets, rescue equipment, and proper training for workers. Meanwhile, the communities surrounding dam sites are calling for urgent measures—such as fencing and professional rescue teams—to prevent future tragedies.
As rescue operations continue, this tragedy is a painful reminder: without basic safety and proper infrastructure, everyday jobs at our dams can turn into deadly missteps.
