Just two weeks after the devastating incident at Maai Mahiu, the site has transformed into a scene of curiosity for onlookers.

Now, water has reduced on the newly formed ‘river’ at Kamuchiri village as it moves silently as though it did not leave a void in the lives of the residents there.

It’s quite hot and the violently uprooted trees have dried. Students from a nearby school have been sent out to gather these trees for firewood.

Land where the Maai Mahiu flood tragedy occurred remains bare with some of the trees that washed up drying up.

Photo credit: LELETI JASSOR/MTAA WANGU

What was once a scene of destruction, with structures washed away by water and about 60 people tragically losing their lives, leaving over 200 families displaced, has now become an attraction site, drawing visitors who come to witness the aftermath of the disaster.

Read: How children of Maai Mahiu tragedy have found peace within a storm

Phineas Ochieng, a motorbike rider who rode from Machakos County, accompanied by two of his rider friends says they came to see in person what happened to the people of Maai Mahiu.

"We had seen it on television, but seeing it in person is different," he explains. "The internet showed us the anguish, but being here paints a clearer picture of what truly unfolded."

A group of motorists make a stop at the site where the Maai Mahiu flood tragedy happened on May 14, 2024.

Photo credit: LELETI JASSOR/MTAA WANGU

Joseph Mwaura, who came from Naivasha, was on his way to attend to his business when he decided to make a stop to see what was left after the aftermath.

“I was passing by to attend to business in the nearby town when I decided to stop and see how water came from the uplands to the lowlands, sweeping everything on its way. I have seen the wonders of God,” he says.

Mwaura recalls seeing the news on television and hearing it on the radio, which piqued his attention.

“Being here, I have seen how these deep-rooted trees were uprooted by the water yet this man’s house still stands,” he says, pointing at a house that survived relatively untouched.

Watch: Ni Mungu tu : House left standing in Maai Mahiu tragedy

Gabriel Kibe, one of the people who toured the site where the Maai Mahiu tragedy occurred on May 14, 2024.

Photo credit: LELETI JASSOR/MTAA WANGU

Gabriel Kibe, who hails from Kinungi in Naivasha sub-county, mentions that he came to witness what he believes to be an act of God. He expresses his shock at the devastation experienced by the people of Maai Mahiu.

He too heard and saw the news on the radio and television and adds that his visit is purposely to have a first-hand account of what took place.

Land where Maai Mahiu tragedy occurred now turns into 'attraction site'

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Leleti Jassor