Narok Governor Leads Search for Two Men Swept Away in Mara River
Rescue operations are ongoing in Narok County after two men were reportedly swept away by raging floodwaters when their vehicle plunged into the Mara River on Sunday, February 22. The incident has drawn attention to concerns over infrastructure and safety in the region following days of heavy rainfall.
Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu has since stepped in to oversee and intensify the search and recovery mission. The two victims, identified as a driver and a passenger, were travelling in a Land Cruiser, reportedly a tourist vehicle, when it was overwhelmed by strong currents at the Mararianta Bridge.
Speaking after visiting the scene, the governor confirmed that efforts were being ramped up despite difficult conditions caused by the swollen river and persistent rains. “I am currently at Mara Rianta to lead the search and recovery efforts for the two young men whose vehicle was swept away by the Mara River floods this past Sunday night,” said Ntutu in a statement shared on his social media platforms, accompanied by images from the site.
Emergency response teams, including local rescuers and security personnel, have been deployed since the incident occurred. However, as of Thursday, neither the victims nor the submerged vehicle had been recovered, underscoring the challenges facing the operation.
The governor’s visit, however, sparked criticism from sections of local residents who expressed frustration over what they termed as long-standing neglect of the bridge. Locals argue that the Mararianta Bridge is in a deteriorating state and poses a recurring danger, particularly during the rainy season.
One resident voiced the community’s concerns, stating, “We have said as the people of Transmara that we need the governor to begin the construction of this bridge. It was constructed by the colonialists. We need solutions.” Residents further alleged that despite repeated budget allocations for infrastructure development, little progress has been made to upgrade the crossing.
The bridge serves as a critical link between Transmara and Narok towns, facilitating transport and economic activity in the area. Community members claim the river has previously claimed lives, raising alarm over continued inaction despite known risks.
The latest tragedy comes amid a series of weather-related disruptions across the country. In a separate incident within Narok County, a bridge connecting Trans Mara South and North was recently destroyed by floods after heavy rains swept through the region. The damage left a key route between Kilgoris and Lolgorian impassable, significantly affecting transport and local businesses.
In response, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) announced that contractors had been dispatched to carry out temporary repairs and restore access for motorists using the affected route.
Authorities have attributed the recent surge in such incidents to intensified rainfall currently being experienced in many parts of the country. The Kenya Meteorological Department has already issued warnings of continued heavy rains in the coming months, urging residents in flood-prone areas to exercise caution.
As search efforts continue, the incident has renewed calls for urgent infrastructure upgrades and stronger disaster preparedness measures to prevent further loss of life. Local leaders and residents alike are now pressing for long-term solutions to address the recurring risks posed by seasonal flooding in Narok County and beyond.
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Narok Governor Leads Search for Two Men Swept Away in Mara River
