Kenyan MSc Student Edna Ombakho Found Dead in Berkshire River After Weeks Missing

The body of Edna Mmbali Ombakho, a 31‑year‑old Kenyan postgraduate student, was recovered from a river in Wraysbury, Berkshire, on Sunday, 8 March, nearly five weeks after she was last seen.

Ms Ombakho, who had been reported missing on 1 February, was pursuing a Master of Science degree at York St John University in London. Friends and family described her as a quiet, diligent student with strong academic ambitions. Her disappearance prompted appeals from both UK authorities and the Kenyan community.

The discovery of her body came just hours before a virtual prayer meeting organised by the River of Christian Fellowship and the Kenyan Communities’ Chairpersons Council (KCCC‑UK), which had been planned in the hope of her safe return. The meeting instead became a gathering for mourning and remembrance. Community members shared tributes highlighting her kindness and dedication.

Richard Mmata spoke of Ms Ombakho’s lively presence and the positive impact she had on those around her, while Bishop Joseph Simiyu expressed the community’s deep sorrow. Others, including Aggrey Kanyanga and Sally Kimondo, acknowledged the shock of her death and called for continued prayers for her family.

Condolence messages came from Kenyan organisations across the UK, including the Nottingham Welfare Association, and from individuals such as Immaculate Odera and Gad Turuthi. H.E. Maurice Makoloo, Kenya’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, conveyed sympathy to her father, Dr George Ombakho, and the wider family.