“They Were Our Strength”: Emurua Dikirr Families Grieve Loss of MP Ngeno and Staff

Four families in Emurua Dikirr Sub-County, Narok County, are mourning relatives who died in a helicopter crash in Mosop, Nandi County, on 28 February. 

The six victims included Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ngeno, his aide Wycliffe Rono, his bodyguard Amos Rotich and staff member Carlos Keter. At Mr Ngeno’s home, relatives gathered as news of the crash reached the area. 

Family spokesperson Peter Rotich described the MP as both a mentor and a father figure who supported his family and the wider sub-county. He urged residents to remain calm as investigations continue. Some family members questioned why several prominent leaders have died in similar air accidents in recent years.

Mr Ngeno’s driver, Christopher Yegon, recalled his humility, saying he once campaigned on a bicycle and worked to secure the creation of Emurua Dikirr constituency. His uncle, David Ngetich, said he had consistently defended local communities during disputes over Mau Forest and Angata Barrikoi. 

Relatives described him as a resilient leader committed to grassroots development.

The loss has also deeply affected the family of Mr Rono. His widow, Lydia, is now caring for four young children, including twins and a four-month-old baby. She said she learnt of her husband’s death through social media footage of the crash. 

His parents, Jane and Richard Sang, described him as a dedicated son and aide who was known locally as “Sportpesa”. Carlos Keter’s family said he had only recently begun his career. Family elder Koech Joseph said his death had cut short his future plans. Jebet Tembur called for government assistance for the bereaved families.