MCK mourns journalist Nicholas Kosgei after tragic helicopter crash
By Cynthia Lodite, March 2, 2026The Media Council of Kenya has mourned the death of Journalist Nicholas Kosgei, who died in a helicopter crash that claimed the life of Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ng’eno.
In a statement on Monday, March 2, 2026, MCK described Kosgei as a gifted visual storyteller whose unwavering commitment to duty marked him as a rising star in the media fraternity.
“The Media Council of Kenya joins the family, friends, and colleagues of Kiplangat Nicholas Kosgei – popularly known as Nick Kosgei – in mourning his tragic death in a helicopter crash on 28 February 2026 in Nandi County,” MCK said.
At the time of his passing, Nick served as a dedicated and talented photojournalist in the office of the immediate former Emurua Dikirr Member of National Assembly, Hon. Johanna Ng’eno.
“His gift for visual storytelling, his professionalism, and his unwavering commitment to duty marked him as a rising star in the media fraternity,” MCK added.
Worth noting, Nick was an alumnus of Maseno University’s Department of Media, where he graduated in 2023 and served as Head of News at Maseno Radio.
The Media Council of Kenya further explained that Nick embodied the finest qualities of a young journalist.
According to MCK, Nick’s death is a profound loss to his family, colleagues, and the wider media community, and his vibrant spirit and promising career will be long remembered.
The tragic crash
The helicopter crashed and burst into flames on the edge of Chepkieb Forest in Mosop, Nandi County, at about 4.45 pm, moments after attempting to take off from a makeshift landing site near the forest, following what witnesses described as poor visibility caused by ongoing rains in the area.
According to residents, the aircraft had earlier made an emergency landing at around 4pm as weather conditions deteriorated. The pilot is said to have briefly engaged herders near the site in conversation while assessing the situation.
All six people on board, including the pilot, are believed to have died on the spot.
According to reports, the aircraft had ferried five passengers en route from Endebess before the crash.
President William Ruto eulogised the late MP as focused, vocal and fearless, noting that he stood firmly for justice and equity.
He said Ng’eno would be remembered for the tangible development gains achieved during his tenure and for his strong support of local talent, particularly in the music industry.