The people of Makueni county are mourning the sudden death of Dr. Sonia Nzilani, the Makueni County Executive Committee Member for Trade, Marketing, Industry, Culture and Tourism.
President William Ruto, Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Junior, and former Governor Prof. Kivutha Kibwana have led tributes following her passing.
Governor Mutula confirmed that Nzilani was found dead in her Makindu home on Saturday morning. According to reports, she had complained of stomach pain linked to hyperacidity prior to her death.
While occasional hyperacidity is common and generally not dangerous on its own, chronic or untreated hyperacidity can lead to serious and potentially fatal health complications over time.
Authorities say her house door had to be broken down to access her body.
“We have lost Dr. Sonia Nzilani this morning. Her body is now at Montezuma Funeral Home. We have met with her family, who have been able to view her body,” Mutula said.
He praised Nzilani as a humble, dedicated public servant whose integrity and commitment to her work left an impact on many. He added that the cause of death is still unknown and that an official statement will be issued through the family after further updates.
“This is a big blow to her family, colleagues, and the people of Makueni. We are deeply saddened and pray for strength during this difficult time,” he said.
Nzilani was widely known for her passion for environmental conservation, especially her love for planting trees and promoting a greener Makueni.
She also made headlines earlier this year after controversially claiming that menstruating women attract crocodiles—a statement she made during the funeral of a 17-year-old girl killed by a crocodile in the Athi River.
Experts dismissed the claims as unscientific, and Nzilani later issued a public apology for the remarks.
Her death has left the county in shock, with many remembering her as a committed leader and environmental champion. May her soul rest in peace.
