Two children die after suspected aflatoxin poisoning in Kitui

Two children succumbed to what appears to be aflatoxin poisoning, while 13 additional family members are receiving medical care in Mutomo, Kitui County. The tragic incident occurred at Joseph Mutemi Mala's home in Kasasi village, Kasasi Sub-location, Voo Location. According to police, Mala purchased a sack of maize from Kaluasi Market on July 12, 2026.

On August 5, three of his children fell ill and were promptly taken to Mutomo Mission Hospital. Diagnosed with suspected aflatoxin fungal infection, they were admitted for treatment. Regrettably, one child passed away on August 19 during treatment; another was later transferred to Kitui Level V Hospital, succumbing to the illness on August 21.

Police informed the public on Friday morning about additional family members exhibiting similar symptoms. As a result, they visited the area and rescued 13 individuals, primarily children, who were subsequently admitted to Mutomo Mission Hospital for treatment. The police and detectives are currently investigating the suspected source of the contaminated maize, with the possibility of other households having purchased the same batch.

Authorities are also expected to examine the safety of maize sold in local markets. In a separate, unrelated incident, police in Embu launched an investigation into the murder of a six-year-old boy, Brian Munene, whose body was discovered in a culvert along the Runyenjes-Embu road. The boy's father reported him missing on Thursday evening; tragically, his body was found on Friday morning. Police are pursuing leads and seeking to determine the motive behind the horrific crime.