One man killed, others injured as stray dogs terrorise Kirinyaga residents

Residents of Ngurubani and surrounding areas in Tebere Ward, Kirinyaga County are living in fear following a surge in the number of stray dogs roaming the area.

The community is raising alarm after several people were reportedly bitten, with at least one fatality linked to the attacks.

According to local resident Reuben Nderitu, a man identified as Kennedy Odinga Obwao from Kiamanyeki village died at Kerugoya Hospital after being bitten by a stray dog.

"He delayed seeking treatment due to financial constraints and was unable to afford a tetanus injection," Nderitu said.

Tebere Ward MCA Peter Karinga has urged the county public health department to take urgent action before residents resort to handling the situation themselves.

“This situation is getting out of hand,” said Karinga. “Kennedy Odinga Ambao, 35, didn’t receive medical attention in time because he couldn’t afford the cost of tetanus medication. According to his wife, Peninah Wambui, he eventually succumbed to tetanus.”

Karinga added that the outbreak began in Kithogo Estate in Ngurubani town, where several people were bitten and treated for tetanus. "Now we have lost one person in Kiamanyeki, and two others—Moses Kariuki and an 11-year-old girl—are receiving treatment for tetanus at home. It’s heartbreaking," he said.

Concerns over the growing number of stray dogs were first raised on February 13, 2025, when two children from Kithogongo slums were attacked and rushed to Kimbimbi Sub-County Hospital.

"The unpredictable behaviour of these dogs has spread fear and anxiety throughout Kiamanyeki village," Nderitu added.

Residents are calling on the Kirinyaga County Government to implement immediate measures to control the stray dog population and improve access to essential medical care, including tetanus treatment.