Samuel Wanyonyi Wangila. Photo: Courtesy
Leader of the People’s Liberation Party, Martha Karua, has mourned a Kenya Red Cross volunteer who died while participating in a rescue mission in Nairobi, describing the incident as a painful reminder of the risks first responders face while saving lives.
The deceased, identified as Samuel Wanyonyi Wangila, lost his life during a rescue operation along the Mbagathi River while responding to reports that a child had been swept away by floodwaters.
Wangila was part of a specialized water rescue team from the Kenya Red Cross Society deployed after heavy rains caused rivers across parts of Nairobi to swell.
In a statement reacting to the tragedy, Karua praised the fallen rescuer for his courage and dedication, saying his death highlights the sacrifices made by humanitarian workers and emergency responders during disasters.
She said the loss was not only a tragedy for Wangila’s family and colleagues but also for the country, noting that volunteers who risk their lives to help others deserve recognition and support.
Karua also expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and to the Kenya Red Cross community, acknowledging the organization’s continued efforts in responding to emergencies across the country.
“Every time disaster strikes, brave men and women step forward to protect and rescue others. Their service to humanity is invaluable, and the nation must honor their commitment,” Karua said.
The rescue operation was launched after residents near the river reported that a child had been swept away by the fast-moving waters following heavy rains that triggered flooding in several parts of Nairobi. Teams of trained divers and volunteers were dispatched to search the river and surrounding areas.
During the mission, Wangila reportedly encountered difficulties while attempting to locate the missing child. Some reports have indicated that the rescuer may have been electrocuted by illegal electricity connections near the flooded area, although authorities have continued to review the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Wangila had served as a volunteer with the Kenya Red Cross for more than a decade and was widely known among colleagues as an experienced rescue diver who had participated in numerous emergency operations.
His death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from humanitarian organizations, rescue workers, and members of the public who described him as a committed volunteer who dedicated his life to helping others during times of crisis.
Karua further called for stronger safety measures during rescue operations and urged authorities to address hazards such as unsafe electricity connections in informal settlements, which she said can endanger both residents and emergency teams.
The incident comes amid a period of heavy rainfall that has triggered flooding in several Nairobi neighborhoods, raising concerns about safety in areas near rivers and drainage channels.
Emergency teams have continued to warn residents to avoid flooded sections of the city and to remain vigilant during the ongoing rains.