THE STANDARD (Nairobi, Kenya) 17 February 06 Excitement as ‘Omieri’ the snake returns (Linda Keya)
The adored snake of Nyanza, Omieri, has resurfaced this time in Kano, Nyando District.
The residents of Ombeyi village heaved a sigh of relief when they spotted the snake believed to bring good luck, at a time when drought and famine have hit the area.
Villagers have been flocking the home of Luke Ochieng’ to see the snake.
Yesterday, when we arrived at the home the serpent had gone hunting and only its eggs lay in its hole.
Among the visitors to the home were Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) wardens.
Councillor Charles Obiero of Ombeyi North Ward appealed to KWS to build a sanctuary for the python before it disappears as did one did in 2003.
In 1987, the Government relocated Omieri to a national park, sparking an outcry from local elders who felt that it was wrong to move the snake from its natural habitat.
Mr Ojwang’ Kombudo, the Nyakach MP then, implored the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife to return Omieri to Nyakach, saying it was a good omen.
Villagers were saddened when the python got burnt in a bush fire and was flown to Nairobi for treatment.
Excitement as ‘Omieri’ the snake returns