- Makueni county was plunged into mourning following the sudden loss of Sonnia Nzilani, a senior county official
- Sonnia passed away on Saturday, on the same day she was to lead community events, including an environmental awareness initiative
- Her unexpected death has left friends, colleagues, and the wider community heartbroken, with tributes pouring in
Makueni county is in mourning following the death of a senior county official.
Source: Facebook
Sonnia Nzilani served as the county executive committee member (CEC) in the department of Trade, Marketing, Industry, Culture and Tourism, before her death on Saturday, November 22.
News of her death spread widely online, with friends and colleagues expressing their shock and heartbreak at her sudden passing.
What happened to Sonnia Nzilani?
A check by TUKO.co.ke on her Facebook page revealed that she had last posted on Wednesday, November 19, sharing a post by Governor Mutula Kilonzo, which featured images of a dam developed by the county government.
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The day before, Sonnia had shared a poster for an event at Kilumilo Primary School in Mtito Andei, scheduled for the same Saturday she passed away.
The passionate environmentalist was due to participate in environmental awareness, academic mentorship, sports activities, and the donation of sanitary pads.
“Our environment, our responsibility, our people, our responsibility,” she had captioned the post.
Reports indicate that the CEC was confirmed dead at her home, though the cause of death remains unclear.
Just a week before her death, Sonnia had attended an event organised by Ziphora Musyimi under Women Connect.
“She went out of her way to help me secure a scholarship that opened the doors to my career advancement. I owe my academic journey to that single act of faith and kindness,” Sonnia said.
A Facebook user who had attended the event with Sonnia shared her heartbreak, reflecting on the fleeting nature of life.
“Barely a week ago! My heart is heavy! Sonnia Nzilani has passed on,” she wrote.
How did Kenyans mourn Sonnia Nzilani?
Other Kenyans joined in mourning her death, with messages such as:
Hon. Joyce Kamene Kasimbi:
“My heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Sonnia Nzilani. Her passing is a significant loss to the whole Kamba community and Makueni county.”
Nicholus N Kisilu:
“What a black Saturday, how will I tell people that you are no more? It’s so unbelievable and unbearable.”
Mason Munyao:
“Rest easy, my friend and mentor Sonnia Nzilani. I’m still processing, but all shall be well. Your legacy remains etched and lives on amongst us!”
Felisters Minoo:
“My heart goes out to the family. Wishing 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 intensified after Sonnia claimed that menstruation may have attracted the crocodile, suggesting that the smell produced during menstruation attracts crocodiles.
Her remarks, made during a public address, were widely criticised for perpetuating harmful myths and trivialising the young girl’s death.
The county government swiftly distanced itself from her statements and issued an apology in response to the backlash.
Proofreading by Asher Omondi, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
