Partying resumes near Juja dam, days after two revellers drown

Last weekend saw tens of cars parked dangerously close to the waters that just recently took the lives of businessman Tirus Maina – and his unidentified female companion – after their car plunged into the Karia-ini dam.

According to residents who spoke to Wananchi Reporting, partying on the same spot hit a crescendo last weekend, with revelers boozing, and looking unbothered by the tragedy four days before.

On Sunday, according to the residents, the place had more than 30 cars parked at the edge of the dam right from midday, with some going on till past midnight.

A mountain of empty ‘makali’ bottles sitting idly under a tree, not far from the cars, tell just half the story.

“The empty bottles are removed from under the tree every week. What you see here was consumed on that tragic Tuesday night and Friday when the drinking spree resumed,” a staff at a nearby pub revealed.

“The accident that happened here a few days ago was an isolated case. We come here regularly and keep a safe distance from the dam. The incident should not make authorities spoil our fun moments,” a reveller said when asked if he was worried about his safety.

The open rocky space became a popular drinking spot after the Covid-19 lockdown that saw entertainment joints closed.

Besides the cool breeze flowing from the waters, revelers are able to carry packed food, and cheap liquor. A few bring traditional brews – probably brewed at home.

“This place offers revelers an alternative, a good view of the dam while taking drinks often bought at low prices elsewhere or swimming at no charge,” Ephantus Maina, a resident said.

In May last year Wananchi Reporting ran a story revealing how merrymakers were risking their lives parking and partying at the edge of the dam.

In 2022, two students from a collage in Nairobi drowned while shooting a music video.

Reports indicated that the two students slipped into the water as they danced at the edge of the dam.

The management of Titanic Beach Resort (Kariani), an entertainment facility in the area confirmed to Wananchi Reporting that indeed the revelers were back.

"It is true that people are still trooping to that spot even after the recent incident. As a management neighbouring the spot, we are concerned, and that is why we have guards manning certain areas of the dam to ensure our customers are safe," said a manager at the nearby Titanic Beach Resort. 

Adding: "It is unfortunate that people have died in the dam, in this style. The authorities need to take stern action to avoid future calamity."