Makueni Trade ECM suspended over claim that menstruating women attract crocodiles

This decision was made by Makueni Governor, Mutula Kilonzo Jr., following a wave of public outrage in response to the statements made by the ECM.

The controversy emerged during the funeral of a 17-year-old girl who tragically lost her life in a crocodile attack while fetching water from the Athi River in Kithaayoni, Kathonzweni subcounty. 

During the burial ceremony on Friday, Dr. Nzilani suggested that the crocodile had attacked the girl because she was menstruating, claiming that crocodiles are drawn to the scent of menstruating women.

This statement quickly sparked a backlash from locals, advocacy groups, and experts, who denounced the remarks as disrespectful and scientifically unfounded. 

Many people found the comments to be insensitive and damaging, especially given the importance of promoting accurate information about menstrual health and wildlife safety.

In response to the public outcry, the Office of Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili issued a press statement on Monday, distancing the county government from Dr. Nzilani's comments. 

The statement expressed regret to the people of Makueni and Kenya at large, stressing that Dr. Nzilani’s views were personal and did not represent the official stance of the county administration.

“As a government that prides itself on upholding the dignity of all citizens, we offer our unreserved apologies for the remarks made by Ms. Nzilani to the people of Makueni County and Kenya at large,” the statement read.

 “The comments have understandably caused widespread discontent, and we assure the public of our unwavering commitment to accountability and reform.”

The Deputy Governor also emphasized Makueni’s ongoing efforts to dispel myths surrounding menstrual health, underscoring the county’s commitment to gender equality, women’s empowerment, and inclusivity. 

Makueni has made significant strides in promoting education for girls and women, with initiatives aimed at dismantling harmful stereotypes and improving access to resources.

The Deputy Governor also reaffirmed the county's focus on vital infrastructure projects, such as the Athi-Tunguni-Kilima, Athi-Kalawa, and Athi-Mavindini Water Projects, aimed at improving water access and resolving conflicts between communities and wildlife along the River Athi.

Dr. Nzilani’s comments were sharply criticized by wildlife experts and medical professionals. 

Dr. Paul Mutua, an immunologist, firmly rejected the claim that menstruating women are more likely to be attacked by crocodiles. 

According to Dr. Mutua, there is no scientific or medical evidence to support the idea that menstrual blood attracts crocodiles. 

Instead, crocodile attacks on humans are primarily driven by the animal's predatory instincts, territorial behavior, and the proximity of human activities to water sources.

The issue of crocodile attacks is a concern in regions where humans and wildlife interact closely, particularly in areas like Makueni, where communities rely on rivers and water bodies for daily needs. 

While crocodile attacks on humans are relatively rare, they are not unprecedented, and experts are calling for a focus on educating the public about safety measures when interacting with bodies of water.

In an attempt to address the growing backlash, Dr. Nzilani later issued a public apology, explaining that her comments may have been misunderstood and that she did not intend to cause alarm or spread misinformation.