In a disheartening setback for public service delivery in Baringo County, the newly built Marigat Mortuary—touted as the first of its kind in Baringo South—has fallen into disuse following a brazen act of vandalism. Months after its completion, the facility remains overgrown and inoperative, with key components such as body trays and electrical cables stolen before it could even be commissioned.
The mortuary was envisioned as a vital service hub for the communities of Tiaty and Baringo South, aiming to offer bereaved families dignity and convenience during periods of mourning. Instead, it has become a source of frustration and hardship. Grieving families are now forced to transport deceased loved ones to distant facilities in Kabarnet, Ravine, or Nakuru—incurring significant emotional and financial strain.
“This facility was meant to restore dignity in times of grief,” said a public health officer at Marigat Subcounty Hospital. “Now it stands as a grim reminder of how criminality can cripple community progress.”
Community elders have strongly condemned the vandalism, calling it a cultural affront to the sanctity of spaces meant to honor the dead. They are urging the government to reinstate a total ban on scrap metal trading, linking the act to a rise in lawlessness among idle youth.
“This mortuary was a blessing turned burden,” lamented one elder. “The government must intervene swiftly before we lose more critical infrastructure.”
The concerns voiced by residents extend beyond the mortuary. Just kilometers away, the Perkerra Irrigation Scheme—one of Kenya’s oldest and most significant agricultural projects—is also under threat. Established in 1954 to support food production in the semi-arid Marigat region, the scheme is now severely hampered by systematic theft of metallic infrastructure, especially gate valves and intake systems critical for water management.
“The situation is becoming volatile,” warned Daniel Waweru, Manager of the Perkerra Irrigation Board. “These thefts disrupt water distribution, leading to conflict among farmers whose crops either flood or dry up. This could escalate into serious local unrest.”
The government had previously imposed a national ban on scrap metal trading in 2022 after a wave of infrastructure sabotage, including damage to rail lines and power grids. However, lax enforcement has allowed a black market to flourish—particularly in towns like Marigat—putting public investments at increasing risk.
The twin crises underscore the urgent need for stronger community policing, reinforced government oversight, and a re-evaluation of policies governing the scrap metal trade. Without prompt and decisive intervention, Baringo South risks losing the very services designed to uplift its people.
