Nzuve’s Service and Untimely Death

Officer Kennedy Mutuku Nzuve, a dedicated member of the Kenyan police force, was serving under the United Nations-backed Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, a mission tasked with stabilizing the troubled Caribbean nation. His duty came to a tragic end on August 31 when the armoured vehicle he was traveling in overturned during an active operation in Port-au-Prince. 

This unfortunate accident resulted in severe injuries that claimed his life, making him the third Kenyan officer to die since the deployment of Kenyan forces to Haiti. His passing is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by officers operating in volatile environments far from home.

Emotional Repatriation and Family’s Anguish

After weeks of uncertainty and pain, Officer Nzuve’s remains were finally repatriated to Kenya, arriving at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to an atmosphere filled with grief and solemnity. Family, friends, colleagues, and senior officers gathered to receive him, many visibly emotional after enduring three long weeks of waiting.

 The family spokesperson, Steve Mutuku Peter, shared the emotional toll the wait had taken on them, describing the period as “agonising” and difficult to endure. While his sudden death remains a source of deep sorrow, the family expressed gratitude that his body was finally home, allowing them to begin preparations for his burial and start the healing process.

Autopsy Confirms Cause of Death

Chief Government Pathologist Johansen Oduor conducted a detailed autopsy at Chiromo Mortuary a day after the repatriation. The findings confirmed that Officer Nzuve succumbed to multiple injuries sustained in the road accident, aligning with the reports shared earlier by the police. 

This official confirmation put an end to speculation and rumours surrounding his death, giving the family a sense of closure as they could now focus on paying him the respect and honour he deserved in his final send-off.

Burial Preparations and Government Appeal

Following a brief but moving requiem mass led by clergy from the Administration Police Service, Nzuve’s remains were transferred to Chiromo Mortuary for preservation ahead of his burial. His interment is scheduled for Thursday, and the family has called on the government to assist in covering all funeral expenses, emphasizing that as a fallen hero who died in service, he deserves a befitting send-off. They expressed hope that the state would step in to ensure the burial honours reflect his dedication and sacrifice.

Third Kenyan Officer Lost in Haiti Mission

Officer Nzuve’s death marks yet another loss for the Kenyan contingent in Haiti, bringing to three the number of Kenyan officers who have died since the deployment began. Earlier in the year, 31-year-old Samuel Kaetuai was laid to rest, while the remains of Benedict Kabiru are still awaited. 

These deaths highlight the dangerous nature of peacekeeping missions in crisis-stricken countries and the risks officers face daily. The government has been urged to ensure the safety of those still serving in Haiti and to provide support to the families left behind by the fallen heroes.