Student dies after being struck by lightning

Bungoma, Kenya: Grief struck Koshok village in Mt Elgon Constituency, Bungoma County, following the death of a student who was struck by lightning while playing football.

The Form Three student at Kapsokwony Boys High School, who was a middle fielder for Koshok Football Club died on the spot during the Monday incident at Sendera Secondary School grounds.

Two other footballers sustained slight injuries and were rushed to Kapsokwony Hospital where they were treated and later discharged.

Residents who spoke to The Standard said the area is prone to lightning strikes, which have resulted in loss of lives and property. They called upon well-wishers to assist in installing lightning arresters in the area to end the avoidable incidents.

Mt Elgon OCPD John Onditi confirmed the incident and asked members of the public to be careful, especially during the ongoing rain season.

“We are asking the residents to avoid situations that make them susceptible to be struck by lightning. Let them ensure they don’t shelter under trees or walk in the rain. The young people should not also play in the rain,” he said.