A funeral in Ngurubani, Mwea Constituency, Kirinyaga County, was thrown into disarray when a swarm of bees attacked mourners, leading to several injuries and hospitalizations.
The incident occurred as attendees were preparing to lay former teacher Faith Njeri Murigu to rest.
The bees descended upon the gathering just after the funeral procession returned from a service at ACK St. Luke Wanguru Church and was moving towards the gravesite.
The sudden attack caused panic, with many mourners fleeing to safety.
Among the injured were family members and clergymen, who were subsequently taken to the hospital for treatment.
Reverend Irene Gitari recounted that despite intense prayers, the bees continued to swarm, forcing her to seek refuge.
An attendee suggested that the presence of oil applied by one of the mourners might have attracted the bees from a nearby tree.
Samuel Waweru, a relative of the deceased, expressed shock at the unusual event, noting it was the first time they had experienced such an incident.
After the injured received medical attention and were discharged, the family proceeded with the burial later that night, attended by a smaller group of people.
This incident is not isolated; similar occurrences have been reported elsewhere.
In Laikipia County, mourners, including a Member of Parliament, had to abandon a coffin and flee when a swarm of bees attacked a funeral procession, resulting in several injuries.
Such unexpected bee attacks during funerals highlight the need for awareness and preparedness, especially in regions where bee populations are prevalent.
Understanding the factors that may provoke such swarms can help in preventing future incidents and ensuring the safety of those attending such solemn events.
Several people hospitalised after bees attack mourners at a funeral in Ngurubani Mwea, Kirinyaga pic.twitter.com/u07gAsgoNg
— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) December 11, 2024
