Kenyan Diaspora Mourns Nakuru Woman Found Dead in Her Washington House

Margaret Wanjiku Njenga, a Kenyan woman from Nakuru, was found dead in her apartment in Lakewood, Washington, on 6 March. 

Local authorities say the city coroner has not yet determined the exact date or cause of her death. Her passing has deeply affected the Kenyan diaspora community in Washington State. 

Friends and acquaintances remember Wanjiku as a warm and approachable person both in social and professional settings. Many have also expressed concern about what they describe as a rising number of unexplained deaths involving Kenyans living abroad. 

Messages shared online reflect both grief and anxiety about the difficulties families face when tragedy occurs far from home. The impact of Wanjiku’s death is particularly severe for her children in Kenya. They lack the financial resources needed to travel to the United States or to cover the cost of returning her body to Kenya. 

Their wish, supported by other relatives, is to have her remains repatriated for burial. Community leaders in Washington have therefore launched a fundraising appeal, encouraging well-wishers to contribute towards the expenses. Organisers say that even small donations will help reduce the burden on the family.

Support efforts are already underway. A community meeting has been scheduled for 10 March in Lakewood, with an option for people to join virtually. Donations are being collected through Zelle and Cash App. 

Organisers say the process will be handled with transparency and accountability. Alongside financial support, members of the community have also organised prayers and offered emotional assistance to the bereaved family.

Wanjiku’s death comes shortly after another loss within the Kenyan diaspora. Sarah Andiki, a Kenyan who served with the US Army’s 492nd Engineer Company, was recently buried in Bondo, Siaya County. Her funeral was attended by many mourners and included military honours, reflecting her service and the contributions of Kenyans living abroad.