Sombe village in Kitui East fell into mourning on Saturday as residents, leaders, friends, and relatives gathered to lay to rest Shadrack Tivui Mwathi, the son of former Sombe MCA Hon. Eunice Katheke.
The burial ceremony, held at Makongo Village in Zombe/Mwitika Ward, was attended by a host of leaders including Kitui Governor Dr. Julius Malombe, Kitui East MP Hon. Nimrod Mbai, Kitui Woman Rep Dr. Irene Kasalu, Sammy Mutea, Bishop Mwangangi, and area MCA Hon. Malinga.
Speaker after speaker paid glowing tributes to Tivui, describing him as a humble, respectful, and promising young man whose sudden demise has left the family and community deeply shaken.
Addressing mourners, leaders called for greater investment in youth mental health awareness and community support systems, noting that many young people silently battle emotional struggles. They urged families and the community to foster open dialogue and stand by those in distress.
Dr. Kasalu and other leaders extended words of comfort to the bereaved family, assuring them of the community’s solidarity during this difficult period.
“This is a heartbreaking reminder of the silent struggles many young people endure. As leaders and parents, we must encourage open conversations and create safe spaces where our youth can find hope and support,” one leader noted.
The ceremony was marked with prayers, hymns, and messages of hope as the community bid farewell to Tivui.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
