Grief has engulfed Kiikat village in Transmara West Sub-County in Narok after 18 cattle were struck to death by lightning following heavy downpour in the area.
The area Deputy County Commissioner Mohammed Noor told the press that the owner of the livestock was grazing his animals in an open field yesterday (Sunday) evening when there was a sudden downpour coupled by lightning.
“It was reported that the 18 cows belonging to a local farmer identified as Joseph Ole Sikawa were struck by lightning as he was herding. All the cows died on the spot and he suffered losses estimated to close to Sh.1million,” said the DCC.
Fortunately, the DCC said the farmer who was herding his cattle was not hurt because he had moved to shield himself in a house far from where the livestock were grazing.
In a phone interview, Ole Sikawa said he had lost a whole herd of livestock, which is the only source of his livelihood.
The renowned farmer in the area called on the government and well-wishers to help him recover the huge loss as he is the sole breadwinner of his family.
“I am heartbroken that I lost almost all my livestock at a twinkle of an eye. I do not know where to start as I am only remaining with a few calves that have been left behind,” he continued.
He at the same time called on the government to erect lightning arrestors on high points in the area saying lightning incidents have been on the rise in the area.
Mid last year, a family lost two of its family members after they were struck by lightning at Emarti area in Trans Mara West Sub County.
by Ann Salaton
