- Makueni County was plunged into mourning following the sudden death of Sonnia Nzilani, the chief county officer
- Sonnia died on Saturday, the same day she was leading social events, including an environmental awareness program
- His untimely death has left friends, colleagues, and the community at large heartbroken, while tributes have poured in.
Makueni County is mourning the death of the county’s chief officer.
Source: Facebook
Sonnia Nzilani served as a member of the county executive committee (CEC) in the department of Commerce, Marketing, Industry, Culture and Tourism, before her death on Saturday, November 22.
News of his death went viral online, with friends and colleagues expressing their shock and grief at his sudden death.
What happened to Sonnia Nzilani?
A search by TUKO.co.ke on his Facebook page showed that he had last posted on Wednesday, November 19, sharing a post by Governor Mutula Kilonzo, which contained pictures of a dam built by the county government.
The previous day, Sonnia had shared a poster of an event at Kilumilo Primary School in Mtito Andei, scheduled for the same Saturday that she died.
The passionate environmentalist was expected to participate in environmental awareness, academic counseling, sports activities, and donation of sanitary pads.
“Our environment, our responsibility, our people, our responsibility,” he had captioned the post.
Reports indicate that CEC was confirmed dead at his home, although the cause of death is yet to be ascertained.
Just a week before her death, Sonnia had attended an event organized by Ziphora Musyimi under Women Connect.
“He worked hard to help me get a scholarship that opened the doors to my professional development. I owe my professional journey to that one act of faith and kindness,” Sonnia said.
A Facebook user who attended the event with Sonnia shared her sadness, reflecting on the fleeting nature of life.
“Just a week ago! My heart is heavy! Sonnia Nzilani has died,” he wrote.
How did Kenyans mourn Sonnia Nzilani?
Other Kenyans joined in mourning his death, with messages such as:
Hon. Joyce Kamene Kasimbi:
“My condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Sonnia Nzilani. Her death is a great loss to the entire Wakamba community and Makueni county.”
Nicholus N Kisilu:
“What a black Saturday, how will I tell people that you are gone? It is strange and unbearable.”
Mason Munyao:
“Rest in peace, my friend and mentor Sonnia Nzilani. I’m still working on it, but all will be well. Your legacy is still etched and lives on among us!”
Felisters Minoo:
“My heart goes out to the family. I wish them peace and comfort during this difficult time.”
Why did Sonnia Nzilani anger Kenyans?
Source: Facebook
In January, a tragic incident in Makueni county, where a 17-year-old girl was killed by a crocodile, sparked national outrage.
The controversy escalated after Sonnia claimed that menstruation may have attracted the crocodile, suggesting that the smell released during menstruation attracts crocodiles.
His remarks, made during a public address, were widely criticized for perpetuating harmful stories and ignoring the little girl’s death.
The county government quickly distanced itself from his statements and issued an apology in response to the complaint.
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Source: TUKO.co.ke
