Kenyans Locate Family of Man Set for Unclaimed Cremation in London

The family of George Mungai Karanja has been located in Kenya, days before authorities in London were due to carry out an unclaimed cremation following his death in early September.

Mr Karanja died on 1 September 2025 at St George’s Hospital in London. With no immediate relatives identified, the hospital had scheduled cremation under the UK’s Public Health (Control of Disease) Act 1984, which allows local authorities to arrange funerals when no next of kin can be found. The deadline for this action was set for 30 September.

Efforts to trace Mr Karanja’s family through official channels were initially unsuccessful. With only a birth certificate and no photograph available, community members launched an urgent appeal through diaspora networks, turning to social media to reach anyone who might recognise the deceased.

The appeal was led by concerned members of the Kenyan community in the UK and amplified by platforms such as Kenyan Diaspora Media. Jehu Gichini, a community organiser in Coventry, described the campaign as a final effort to avoid a public health cremation.

“We understood that social media is not ideal for such sensitive matters,” he said, “but it was the last throw of the dice. Thankfully, it worked.”

Following the circulation of the appeal, Mr Karanja’s family came forward after recognising details shared online. The Kenyan Embassy in London has since established contact with the family and is now assisting with the repatriation of his remains to Kenya for burial. A spokesperson for the family expressed appreciation to all who helped with the search.

“Thank you for posting about George. His family has been found and the Kenyan Embassy is in touch. The family requests privacy,” the spokesperson said in a phone call to Kenyan Diaspora Media.

In accordance with the family’s wishes, the original appeal has been removed from public platforms. Only confirmed updates will be shared moving forward, and the community has pledged continued support while respecting the family’s privacy.