Groom’s Mother, Three Others Die After Feasting at Dowry Ceremony in Nyeri, Several Hospitalized

Four people lost their lives while several others were hospitalized after suspected food poisoning at a ceremony in Nyeri County last week.

Confirming the incident, Nyeri Assistant County Commissioner Samuel Kariuki said the four passed away after feasting at a dowry payment ceremony in Rodama village, Kieni West sub-County on Thursday.

The mother of the groom and two other in-laws are among those who died while the fourth person is a resident of Rodama village.

Several neighbors who attended the ceremony are being treated at Kariminu dispensary with stomach problems and diarrhea. The groom was also treated at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) where cholera diagnosis was ruled out.

Mugunda Ward Representative, Joseph Nderitu was among those who were rushed to the hospital. Family members said the food was prepared by cooks hired by the groom from Gikomba in Nairobi.

Police have launched investigations into the incident to establish the cause of food poisoning.