What was meant to be a weekend of adventure and fun in Kirinyaga County ended in heartbreak after a 25-year-old man drowned in Thiba River at Rukenya Falls on Sunday evening.

Daniel Mutua, who had travelled from Nairobi with a large group of friends, tragically lost his life while swimming at the popular Rukenya Falls site in Gichugu Constituency. The incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. cutting short what had been a spirited outing for over 100 Nairobi-based youth.

According to eyewitnesses, Mutua was in the water demonstrating swimming techniques to others when he was caught by a strong current. Despite desperate cries for help, those present were unable to save him in time.

“It’s hard to accept. We watched helplessly as he was dragged downstream,” said John Oyoyi, a close friend who was part of the group. “We shouted for help and rushed to get the caretaker, but by then, it was too late.”

Efforts to retrieve Mutua’s body have been ongoing, with local divers, county disaster response teams, and residents working tirelessly along the riverbank. As of Tuesday, April 29th, the search had entered its third day.

The incident has raised concerns over safety measures at popular natural attractions, particularly during peak weekends when large groups frequent such locations. Residents have urged visitors to exercise caution and called for better safety signage and lifeguard presence.