President William Ruto on Friday joined thousands of mourners in Emurua Dikirr, Narok County, to bid farewell to the five victims who lost their lives in a tragic helicopter crash that shocked the nation.
The emotional funeral service brought together national and local leaders, family members and residents who gathered to honour the lives of the victims, including Emurua Dikirr Member of Parliament Johana Ng’eno.
Speaking during the ceremony, President Ruto paid tribute to the late MP, describing him as a dedicated leader whose work had a lasting impact on his constituents and the country.
“Mheshimiwa Johana Ng’eno lived a life of dedicated service, making a remarkable and lasting contribution to the welfare of his constituents, our nation, and humanity at large,” the President said.
Estate to be renamed in honour of Johana Ng’eno
As part of efforts to preserve the late MP’s legacy, President Ruto announced that Shauri Moyo Estate in Emurua Dikirr would be renamed Johana Ngeno Estate.
The President said the decision was meant to recognise Ng’eno’s commitment to serving his people and ensure that his contribution to the region remains part of the area’s history.
He noted that the tragic loss serves as a reminder of the importance of public service and dedication to the common good.
“His passing is a sobering reminder of our inevitable mortality, and a solemn call to each of us to give our very best, in every circumstance, whenever we have the opportunity to serve,” Ruto stated.
Government pledges support to affected families
During the ceremony, the President also announced several support measures aimed at helping the families of those who died in the crash rebuild their lives.
Among the directives issued was the employment of the late MP’s wife at the Ministry of Agriculture.
In addition, a Teachers Service Commission appointment letter that had been issued to Carlos, one of the victims, will now be redirected to his sister so that the opportunity remains within the family.
President Ruto also pledged that the government would assist in resettling the family of Nick Kosgey.
Education support and financial assistance
The Head of State further committed to supporting the education of students from Amos’ family who are currently studying at Kisii University.
He said the government would take responsibility for paying their school fees, while Belgut MP Nelson Koech would sponsor one student and businessman Brighton would support another.
The President also announced that each of the four affected families would receive Sh2 million in financial assistance to help them cope with the loss.
The funds were handed to Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu, who will oversee their distribution to the families.
Nation pays tribute to victims
President Ruto concluded by offering condolences to the families and friends of the victims and urged Kenyans to remember their service and contributions.
“May the Almighty God grant comfort and strength to the family and friends of Ng’eno, Were, Kiprotich, Kipng’etich, Kiplang’at and Kipkoech. Rest in peace,” he said.
The funeral service for the victims of the helicopter crash drew leaders from across the political divide, reflecting the deep national grief and the impact the tragedy has had on the country.
