Family Seeks Government Help to Repatriate Body of Kenyan Worker Who Died in Iraq

The family of Felister Kemunto Kaunda, a Kenyan migrant worker who died in Iraq, is seeking government assistance to repatriate her body for burial in Kisii.

Relatives said Kemunto had been working in Iraq for three years and died a few weeks after renewing her employment contract. They have been informed that her death may have been caused by respiratory complications, but said no official medical report has been provided to confirm the cause.

Her family expressed distress over the lack of clear information from both the authorities and the recruitment agency involved in her placement. Her mother said they have not received a detailed explanation of the circumstances surrounding her death or her final days.

The family also said they are unable to meet the cost of transporting her remains from Iraq to Kenya. Her father appealed to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other relevant agencies to intervene, saying the family does not have the financial means to complete the process without assistance.

Kemunto’s death has prompted reactions from Kenyans living abroad, many of whom shared concerns about the risks faced by migrant workers in countries where Kenya has limited diplomatic representation.