Residents of Baringo South and neighbouring areas will have to wait longer for mortuary services after the only facility in the region was vandalised months ago just before it was set to be commissioned.
The mortuary, located in Marigat and intended to serve both Baringo South and Tiaty sub-counties, remains non-operational after unknown individuals broke in and stole key components, including body preservation trays and electrical cables.
Since the incident, the facility has remained deserted and overgrown with bushes.
The mortuary was constructed by the Baringo County Government to bring essential services closer to the people.
However, the delay has forced bereaved families to seek mortuary services in far-flung towns such as Kabarnet, Ravine, and Nakuru incurring higher costs.
A public health officer at Marigat Sub-County Hospital linked the vandalism to the high demand for scrap metal in the area, which has reportedly attracted idle youth into the trade.
“Scrap metal business has become popular in this area, and idle youth are taking advantage by targeting public infrastructure like power lines and mortuary equipment. This is now undermining essential health services meant to benefit the community.”
Community elders condemned the break-in, terming it a taboo and a setback to government’s efforts of easing the burden on grieving families.
They called on the government to consider regulating or banning scrap metal trading to curb such incidents.
Efforts to operationalise the mortuary have stalled as the county government seeks alternative funds to revive the project.
