Makueni County official suspended over controversial menstruation remarks

Dr. Sonia Nzilani, Makueni County Executive Committee Member (ECM) for Trade, Marketing, Industry, Culture, and Tourism.

By Rachael Mutabasi
Monday, January 20, 2025

Many condemned the comments as perpetuating harmful myths about menstruation, particularly in a context where menstrual health and wildlife safety require accurate public information.

The Makueni County Government has suspended Dr. Sonia Nzilani, its Executive Committee Member (ECM) for Trade, Marketing, Industry, Culture, and Tourism, for 45 days following controversial comments she made about menstruating women and crocodile attacks.

Dr. Nzilani sparked public outrage during the funeral of a 17-year-old girl who was killed by a crocodile while fetching water from the Athi River in Kathonzweni Sub-County.

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Speaking at the burial, she suggested that the crocodile attacked the girl because she was menstruating, claiming that menstrual blood attracts crocodiles.

These remarks were met with sharp criticism from locals, advocacy groups, and experts, who dismissed the claims as unscientific and insensitive.

Many condemned the comments as perpetuating harmful myths about menstruation, particularly in a context where menstrual health and wildlife safety require accurate public information.

In response to the public outcry, Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. took swift action, suspending Dr. Nzilani from her duties. Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili further distanced the county administration from the comments, issuing a statement on Monday to address the backlash.

"The remarks made by Nzilani do not reflect the position of Makueni County. We deeply regret the offence caused and apologize to the people of Makueni and Kenya at large," the statement read.

The county government emphasised its commitment to gender equality, women's empowerment, and inclusivity, as well as its dedication to addressing menstrual health misconceptions.

"Let it be known that the County Government of Makueni has long been a champion of gender equity and child welfare. Through initiatives such as 'Keeping Girls in School, Ending the Period of Shame. Under the Office of the Deputy Governor in partnership with the Department of Gender and Social Services, we have consistently sought to eradicate harmful myths surrounding menstrual hygiene while empowering our girls to pursue their education without barriers,"the county government stated.

In addition to addressing the controversy, the statement touched on the government's initiatives to combat water-related challenges, including attacks along River Athi.

The county is accelerating the completion of critical water projects, such as the Athi-Tunguni-Kilima, Athi-Kalawa, and Athi-Mavindini water projects, to provide clean and reliable water to affected communities.

Wildlife and medical experts also refuted Dr. Nzilani's claims. Dr. Paul Mutua, an immunologist, stated there is no scientific evidence linking menstrual blood to increased crocodile attacks, labeling the remarks as baseless.

The Makueni County Government reaffirmed its commitment to respect, inclusivity, and the empowerment of all residents as it continues to prioritize public welfare and development.