2 Kirinyaga families mourn loved ones who died in KDF chopper crash

Two families in Kirinyaga County are mourning the loss of their relatives, who were among the nine military personnel killed alongside the Chief of Defence Forces, General Francis Omondi Ogolla, in a helicopter crash. 

Residents of Kirimunge village in Kirinyaga Central gathered at the home of Senior Sergeant John Kinyua Muriithi to mourn his loss following yesterday's tragic plane crash in Elgeyo Marakwet County.

Josphat Muriithi, Kinyua's father, claimed that he learned of his son’s death from the national address by President William Ruto yesterday.  

"We learned about our son's passing during the evening briefing by the Head of State. John was the pillar of our family, and the last time we saw him was on Monday, helping with farm work after a wedding."

The family is overwhelmed with disbelief as they grapple with the loss of their main provider.

His mother, Jecinta Wambui, was filled with anguish and disbelief and was yet to comprehend the death of his son. 

"We never thought we would lose our dear son, John,” a grieving Wambui stated. 

Grace Wambui, Kinyua's wife, expressed her disbelief, adding, "I couldn't believe the news of the plane crash until it was confirmed by the Head of State."

President William Ruto shakes hands with the late CDF General Francis Ogolla at State House, Nairobi, on April 29, 2023. (Photo: PCS)

Military officials arrived at the village around 10:30 am to offer prayers and support to the grieving family. They assured the family that they would be updated on the burial arrangements.

Not far from Kinyua's home, another family in Kagio town, just 20 kilometres from Kirimunge, was also filled with grief as family and friends of Sergeant Rose Nyawira mourned her loss.

Peter Wachira Kariuki, Nyawira's father, confirmed the heartbreaking news of his daughter's death. 

The livestock farmer based in Kagio town fondly recalled their last conversation, saying, "She was here on Sunday, and we had a wonderful talk. Despite the heavy rain, I saw her off. I will miss her deeply."

Nyawira's brother, Martin Kinyua, first saw the news on social media and was heartbroken after his uncle confirmed Nyawira's death. 

"At first, we thought it was a cruel joke until our uncle confirmed it. It's devastating to lose my sister, who had such a promising future. She was not only a dedicated soldier but also an excellent photographer."

The helicopter carrying the deceased crashed at 2:20 pm in the Sindar area of Elgeyo Marakwet. Other soldiers who died included Brigadier Swale Saidi, Colonel Duncan Keittany, Lieutenant Colonel David Sawe, Major George Benson Magondu (pilot), Captain Sora Mohamed, Captain Hillary Litali, and Sergeant Cliphonce Omondi. 

“I am deeply saddened. This is a very sad moment. A moment of great sadness, for me, as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces. A tragic moment for the Kenya Defence Forces fraternity and a most unfortunate day for the nation at large,” President Ruto eulogised.