Veteran journalist Kitavi Mutua, a former long-serving Nation Media Group correspondent based in Kitui County, has died following complications from a snakebite, prompting an outpouring of tributes from political leaders, journalists and friends.

Mutua died on Friday, October 30, 2026, while receiving treatment at the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital, where he had been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

According to the Daily Nation, the journalist had been attacked by a venomous snake and was initially treated at Kitui County Referral Hospital before being transferred to Nairobi after his condition deteriorated.

Family spokesperson Faith Kithele said Mutua had also been diagnosed with diabetes, which complicated his treatment. His kidneys, liver and lungs reportedly failed before he suffered a fatal cardiac arrest.

Mutua spent many years reporting for the Daily Nation, covering politics, devolution, health, climate change and other issues affecting communities in Kitui and the wider Ukambani region. He had left Nation Media Group about two years ago to pursue private business interests.

Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua led political leaders in mourning the journalist, describing him as a respected professional whose dedication to journalism would be remembered.

"It is with a heavy heart that I receive the news of the passing of Mr. Kitavi Mutua," the Cabinet Secretary said in a statement.

"I will fondly remember him for his dedication to journalism and the engagements we shared."

He said Mutua's death was a loss not only to his family but also to the media fraternity and the wider community, extending condolences to his relatives, friends and former colleagues.

Former Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu described Mutua as a distinguished journalist who maintained strong relationships across different sections of society.

"Kitui has lost a great son of the soil, an impeccable scribe, and an outstanding role model to this generation," Ngilu said.

Kitui Woman Representative Irene Kasalu remembered Mutua as a mentor who helped her understand political communication during her early years in public life.

Kasalu said the journalist generously shared his knowledge and offered guidance on navigating the relationship between politics and the media.

"Beyond being a journalist, Kitavi was a mentor, a friend and a professional who believed in helping others," she said.

Journalists who worked alongside Mutua also paid tribute to his professionalism and contribution to regional reporting.

Kenya Editors' Guild trustee and veteran journalist Martin Masai described his death as devastating, recalling that Mutua had extensively covered snakebite incidents during his career.

Standard Media Group journalist Philip Muasya remembered him as a gifted writer and friend whose stories would remain part of his professional legacy.

Mutua's death has also drawn attention to the dangers of snakebites, particularly in rural communities where access to timely emergency treatment can be difficult.

Kenya records more than 19,000 snakebite cases annually, according to figures cited in recent reporting, highlighting the continuing need for accessible and effective antivenom treatment.

Mutua is survived by his wife, Grace, and their two children.

His death marks the loss of an experienced regional journalist whose reporting brought the concerns, challenges and achievements of Kitui residents to national attention.