Kenya received devastating news on Saturday, February 28, 2026, when a helicopter crashed in the Chepkiep area of Mosop Sub-County, Nandi County, killing all six people on board.

Among the victims was Johana Ng’eno Ole Kisiara, the Member of Parliament for Emurua Dikirr Constituency in Narok County.

The helicopter burst into flames after impact in a densely forested area. Videos from the scene showed thick smoke rising from the burning wreckage amid thick bushes, with charred remains visible.

Kiharu Member of Parliament and his Embakasi East counterpart Babu Owino were among the first to share messages of condolences following Ng’eno’s death.

“It is very traumatic to learn about the tragic accident that happened today where Six Kenyans lost their lives. Hon Johanna Ng’eno was a great man committed to the welfare of our Country, Kenya. He was firm, courageous, forthright, fearless and dedicated. A true benevolent modern warrior. Very difficult to believe,” Ndindi Nyoro’s message read in part.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic passing of our colleague, Honourable Johanna Ngeno and other Kenyans following the devastating helicopter crash. This is not only a profound loss to their families and loved ones, but also to Parliament and to the nation they served with dedication and integrity,” Babu Owino wrote.

“Honourable Johanna Ngeno was a committed public servant whose voice, leadership, and passion for the people will be remembered with great respect. His contributions to our legislative work and to the development of our country will leave a lasting legacy.”

Ng’eno had attended a function in Endebess earlier that day before boarding the chopper.

Born in 1972, Johana Ng’eno grew up in poverty in the Rift Valley. His father worked as a cattle rustler, and the 1994 famine forced the family to move to Molo. As a boy, he walked up to 50 kilometres daily with 16 donkeys carrying charcoal and maize for sale.

“I stayed in the area for many years where I built a stock of 16 donkeys which I used to ferry items ranging from maize, charcoal and many others to various parts of Nakuru, Bomet and Kericho,” he earlier stated.

Despite these struggles, he pushed through school at Mogondo Primary and Maseno School for his KCSE. He later earned a BA in International Law from Kyiv TSN University in Ukraine, an LLB from Mt. Kenya University, and a Master’s in International Studies from the University of Nairobi.

Fearless leader and advocate

He entered politics in 2007, contesting the Kilgoris seat, but claimed rigging that sparked protests. In 2013, he won the newly created Emurua Dikirr seat, retaining it in 2017 and 2022.

Supporters knew him for his bold style. He faced arrests several times while defending rights during forest evictions, BBI debates, and land disputes, yet he never backed down.

In Parliament, he chaired the Housing, Urban Planning and Public Works Committee. On the ground, he pushed road projects, handed out millions in bursaries, and supplied school buses to boost education in his area. The community installed him as a Kipsigis elder and spokesperson, giving him strong traditional standing.

In 2025, when insecurity hit places like Angata Barikoi, he demanded justice after civilian deaths and confronted security forces directly. This loss hits the Kalenjin community and Kenya hard. Many called it a sad day for the nation.