Residents of Baringo South and it’s environs have to wait longer for mortuary services which was about to be commissioned only for unknown people broke in and stole body trays and power cables connecting to the facility.
The only mortuary in Baringo South which was to cater for Tiaty and Baringo south was broke into and months later the facility remain deserted and bushy as those who lose loved ones forced to seek services in either Kabarnet,Ravine or Nakuru incurring more cost to the bereaved.
The mortuary which was constructed by Baringo county Government was aimed at bringing services closer to the people,According to the public health officer at Marigat subcounty hospital pointed out the high demand of scrap metal in the town which has made idle youths in nearby areas engage in scrape metal business.
Elders condemned this acts terming as a taboo to invade mortuary which was meant to ease the burden,and urged the Government to consider banning the trade of this metals
Marigat mortuary has since stalled as the county seek other funds to run it but it the mean time Residents in this areas have to incur more cost in preserving their loved ones
This is one of the many isolated cases as infrastructure in perkera irrigation scheme was also vandalized
The Perkerra Irrigation Scheme, one of Kenya’s oldest and most vital agricultural projects, is under siege by vandals targeting metal infrastructure for scrap.
Established in 1954 by the colonial government, the Perkerra scheme was envisioned as a lifeline for food production in the arid Marigat region. Today, it remains a critical source of seed maize and fresh produce for thousands of families. But now, this lifeline is being choked by ttheft for scrap
In recent months, farmers have reported a surge in cases of vandalism along the irrigation canals. Metallic gate valves and water intake systems — essential components for regulating the flow of irrigation water — have become prime targets for scrap metal thieves. Under the cover of night, criminals dismantle and remove the heavy metal parts, selling them in nearby Marigat town for quick cash.
The consequences have been devastating. With gate valves missing, water gushes unchecked through canals, bypassing crucial redirection points that serve lower-lying farms. Crops are withering in the fields. Tensions among farmers are escalating. And unless urgent measures are taken, the damage could spiral into open conflict.
“We are witnessing increasing fights among farmers,” said Daniel Waweru, manager of the Perkerra Irrigation Board. “The scrap metal cartels have caused massive damage. These farmers depend entirely on controlled irrigation. Without the gate valves, we can’t ensure fair distribution of water.”
Waweru explained that the valves are crucial in regulating water flow, especially during peak demand seasons. “Without regulation, some farms flood while others are left dry. This creates resentment and mistrust within the community.”
The government had previously banned scrap metal trade in 2022, citing rampant theft of public infrastructure, including railway lines and power lines. However, enforcement has waned, and black-market demand remains strong.
