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The Makueni County Government has suspended Dr. Sonia Nzilani, the Executive Committee Member (ECM) for Trade, Marketing, Industry, Culture, and Tourism, for 45 days following her controversial remarks suggesting that menstruating women attract crocodiles.
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This decision was made by Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. after a public outcry over her statements.
The controversy began during the funeral of a 17-year-old girl who was killed in a crocodile attack while fetching water from the Athi River in Kithaayoni, Kathonzweni subcounty. At the ceremony on Friday, Dr. Nzilani claimed that the crocodile had attacked the girl because she was menstruating, suggesting that the animals are attracted to the scent of menstruation.
The remarks were quickly condemned by locals, advocacy groups, and experts, who criticized them as disrespectful and scientifically unfounded. Many viewed the comments as harmful, especially in the context of promoting accurate information about menstrual health and wildlife safety.
In response to the public backlash, Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili issued a statement distancing the county government from Dr. Nzilani’s comments. The statement expressed regret, clarifying that her views were personal and did not reflect the official position of the county administration.
“As a government committed to upholding the dignity of all citizens, we offer our sincerest apologies to the people of Makueni and Kenya,” the statement read. “The comments have understandably caused widespread discontent, and we assure the public of our continued commitment to accountability and reform.”
The Deputy Governor also highlighted the county’s ongoing efforts to challenge myths about menstrual health and reaffirmed its dedication to gender equality, women’s empowerment, and inclusivity. Makueni has made notable progress in supporting girls’ and women’s education, dismantling harmful stereotypes, and improving resource access.
Additionally, the Deputy Governor reaffirmed the county’s focus on vital infrastructure projects, including the Athi-Tunguni-Kilima, Athi-Kalawa, and Athi-Mavindini Water Projects, aimed at improving water access and resolving conflicts between communities and wildlife along the Athi River.
Dr. Nzilani’s comments were criticized by wildlife experts and medical professionals. Dr. Paul Mutua, an immunologist, dismissed the idea that menstruating women are more likely to be attacked by crocodiles, stating that there is no scientific evidence to support such claims. He explained that crocodile attacks are typically driven by predatory instincts, territorial behavior, and the proximity of human activities to water sources.
Crocodile attacks remain a concern in regions where humans and wildlife interact closely, such as Makueni, where communities depend on rivers for daily needs. While such attacks are rare, experts stress the importance of educating the public on safety precautions when near water.
In an effort to address the backlash, Dr. Nzilani later issued an apology, stating that her comments may have been misinterpreted and that she did not intend to cause panic or spread misinformation.
