His health complications reportedly began after he was bitten by a red spitting cobra. He was initially admitted to Kitui County Referral Hospital, where doctors also discovered that he had diabetes.
Veteran Kenyan journalist Kitavi Mutua, a former long-serving Nation Media Group correspondent in Kitui County, has died following complications arising from a venomous snake bite.
Mutua died on Friday at Kenyatta University Teaching and Referral Hospital, where he had been receiving specialised treatment after his condition deteriorated.
Family spokesperson Faith Kithele said doctors attempted to resuscitate him three times after he suffered a cardiac arrest, but their efforts were unsuccessful.
His health complications reportedly began after he was bitten by a red spitting cobra. He was initially admitted to Kitui County Referral Hospital, where doctors also discovered that he had diabetes.
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The family later transferred him to Kenyatta University Teaching and Referral Hospital after he failed to respond to treatment.
Kithele said his kidneys, liver and lungs had failed, leaving him in critical condition. He spent two weeks in the Intensive Care Unit before his death.
She said doctors linked his death to complications from the snake attack, which were aggravated by his underlying medical condition.
Mutua, who left Nation Media Group about two years ago to venture into private business, had built a distinguished career covering politics, healthcare, climate change, devolution and environmental challenges in Kitui County.
His death has drawn tributes from journalists and political leaders who remembered him for his professional contribution, mentorship and close relationships with the community.
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Standard Media Group journalist Phillip Muasya described him as an accomplished writer and friend, saying his stories and contribution to journalism would remain part of his legacy.
Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua also mourned the journalist, recalling his dedication to the profession and the engagements they shared. He extended condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.
Kitui Woman Representative Irene Kasalu credited Mutua with mentoring her during her early years in politics, saying he helped her understand media relations and effective communication.
She described him as a professional who willingly shared his knowledge and guided emerging leaders.
Former Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu said the county had lost an outstanding journalist whose career was characterised by meaningful relationships across different sections of society.
Kitui County Assembly Speaker Kelvin Kinengo Katisya also remembered Mutua as a close friend who had supported his political journey.
Katisya said Mutua helped tell his story when he became Speaker at the age of 30, highlighting his rise from a humble background and amplifying his voice in public affairs.
Mutua’s death marks the loss of an experienced journalist whose reporting helped document Kitui County’s political, social and development challenges.