Kisumu: Fresh questions have emerged over the drowning of four siblings in an abandoned quarry at the Kanyakwar area in Kisumu Central Sub-County after authorities revealed that first responders reported seeing foam coming from the children’s mouths. Kisumu County Commissioner Benson Leparmorijo said the observation, made by among others the area chief who was among the first people to arrive at the scene, had prompted investigators to widen the scope of inquiry into Sunday evening’s tragedy.
According to Kenya News Agency, unconfirmed reports from those who arrived first at the scene, including the area chief, suggested that foam was emanating from the children’s mouths. This observation has led to suspicions and a broader investigation into the incident, as such a phenomenon is not typical of drowning cases. Commissioner Leparmorijo emphasized that no conclusions could be drawn at this stage, and a comprehensive report would be released upon completion of investigations.
The incident has sparked conflicting narratives regarding the activities of the boys at the water-filled quarry. Initial reports suggested that the children had gone swimming, but some family members indicated they had gone to fetch water, supported by the presence of jerrycans found at the scene. The victims, aged 15, 12, 10, and 8, were pupils at Kudho Primary School.
Commissioner Leparmorijo highlighted the quarry’s history, excavated 25 years ago by SBI, a construction company during road works. Although initially fenced off, the site was left exposed after vandalism of the barrier. The tragedy has drawn attention to other dangerous, abandoned mining sites in Kisumu County, with calls for urgent action to prevent further loss of life.
Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o expressed deep sorrow, describing the deaths as a preventable calamity. He announced the suspension of all quarrying activities in the county, pending a compliance review. Only operators with valid legal approvals and enforceable safety standards will be allowed to resume operations, with a requirement for a clearly approved, time-bound land rehabilitation and restoration plan.
The governor directed the County Department of Environment, in collaboration with NEMA and the Office of the County Commissioner, to form a joint task force to audit all existing quarries and take legal action against those operating without a license.
