Kenyan Lawmaker Among Six Dead in Helicopter Crash in Nandi County

A helicopter crash in Nandi County, western Kenya, on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, killed six people, including Emurua Dikirr Member of Parliament Johana Ng’eno. The tragic accident occurred in a hilly area of Mosop Sub-county, and police have launched an investigation into the cause.

Authorities say the aircraft, registered 5Y-DSB and identified as an Airbus Helicopters H125, went down shortly after takeoff and burst into flames, killing all on board. Local police commander Samuel Mukuusi told reporters that bad weather is believed to have played a role in the crash.

Victims and Early Details

Among the deceased was MP Johana Ng’eno, a 54-year-old legislator who was serving his third term in Parliament after being first elected in 2013 and re-elected in 2017 and 2022. He was also the chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Housing, Urban Planning, and Public Works and a member of the Parliament’s Liaison Committee.

Authorities have recovered personal items such as a mobile phone and SIM card belonging to Ng’eno at the crash site, but the identities of the other four victims are still being confirmed. Among them is reported to be an officer from the Kenya Forest Service.

Response from Officials

The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has begun formal investigations into the crash, with its Aircraft Accident Investigation Department (AAID) collecting evidence and assessing the circumstances. KCAA extended condolences to the families of the victims as inquiries continue.

Kenyan leaders have expressed sorrow over the loss. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula eulogized Ng’eno as a “devoted legislator and committed public servant,” while President William Ruto described him as a “focused, vocal and fearless leader.” A special team of lawmakers has been appointed to coordinate with Ng’eno’s family over burial arrangements.

Background and Investigations

Police say the crash happened around 4:30–4:45 p.m. local time after the helicopter attempted an emergency landing due to poor weather conditions. Rescue teams responded quickly, but no survivors were found.

As investigators continue to collect evidence, Kenyans await more detailed findings on what exactly caused the helicopter to go down. Officials will likely release further updates once post-mortems and technical analysis are complete.