The sudden death of Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ngeno in a helicopter crash on Saturday has left friends and colleagues in deep mourning, including Albert Kochei, chairperson of the Multimedia University (MMU) of Kenya.
In an emotional statement on Facebook, Kochei shared how he was scheduled to meet the late legislator on the day of his tragic death.
“Why him, the question that has no answer… my heart is heartbroken,” Kochei said.
He revealed that MP Ngeno was meant to attend the 4th Edition of the Kapchorwa Youth Empowerment Programme (KYEP) as his special guest.
However, at 3:45 pm, Ngeno called to be excused, citing urgent constituency matters following skirmishes in Angata.
Kochei described Ngeno as a leader deeply committed to empowering young talent.
“He was very passionate and intentional in uplifting and empowering those who are talented in singing. Today morning, he went to Endebes to empower Hillary Chemos, popularly called ‘Kim Kim,’ demonstrating his commitment to standing with youth with talent in music,” Kochei stated.
He added that Ngeno’s influence extended far beyond the legislative chambers, leaving a lasting impact on millions of young people pursuing careers in the arts.
“Mweshimiwa has left a lasting impact in the lives of millions of talented music youths. I have lost a dear friend,” Kochei said.
The chairperson also shared a personal anecdote that highlighted Ngeno’s approachable nature.
“A boy did him a drawing, which I haven’t even handed over to him,” Kochei recounted, emphasizing the MP’s attentiveness to even the smallest gestures of support and encouragement for youth.
Known for his proactive approach to community engagement, MP Ngeno had frequently championed initiatives supporting education, talent development, and economic empowerment in his constituency.
His commitment to youth and the arts has been widely acknowledged by peers and beneficiaries alike.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves across the political and cultural sectors, with many describing Ngeno as a visionary whose loss is felt profoundly by the communities he served. His dedication to uplifting young talent remains a defining legacy of his career.