A tragic aircraft accident in Kajiado on September 18, 2026, claimed the lives of two individuals, including Moses Wachira Kariuki, a 20-year-old Commercial Pilot Trainee at the Kenya School of Flying. Kariuki was born on June 5, 2006, and had just begun his aviation career. The accident has left a community in Murang'a County devastated, with family and friends gathering to mourn and finalize burial arrangements.
Kariuki hailed from Wahundura Village in Mathioya Sub-County, Murang'a County, where he grew up with a passion for aviation. He is survived by his parents, Hezron Kariuki Thiong'o, a former Kenya Revenue Authority officer, and Leah Muthoni Kariuki, as well as four siblings and four nieces and nephews. His family is preparing for his burial, scheduled for Friday, September 25, 2026, at the family farm in Wahundura Village.
The burial program for Kariuki will begin with the collection of his body from Montezuma Funeral Home in Kabati at 7:30 a.m., followed by a funeral service at ACK St. Paul's Kirungu. The cortege will then proceed to the family farm for interment. Kariuki's death, along with that of flight instructor Alex Oluka, has been a significant loss for the Kenya School of Flying.
Kariuki was set to graduate within weeks of the accident and was described by those who knew him as a dedicated and humble young man. His father had earlier shared his son's plans for the future, which were abruptly taken away. The accident has left a community in shock, with many paying tribute to the young pilot.
The Kenya School of Flying has lost two young men with enormous promise in the Kajiado crash. Kenyans had earlier been moved by a glimpse into Oluka's humble home, and now a second family faces the same unimaginable grief as they prepare to lay their son to rest at just 20 years old.
The accident is a reminder of the risks associated with aviation training, and the importance of safety measures. An investigation into the cause of the accident is likely to be conducted to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Moses Kariuki's death has brought attention to the life of Alex Oluka, whose mother spoke about her son's final plea before the crash. The community is coming together to support the families of the two victims, and to honor their memories.
Key points
- Moses Wachira Kariuki, 20, died alongside flight instructor Alex Oluka in a Kajiado aircraft accident on September 18, 2026.
- Kariuki was a Commercial Pilot Trainee at the Kenya School of Flying and is survived by his parents and four siblings.
- The burial for Kariuki is scheduled for Friday, September 25, 2026, at the family farm in Wahundura Village, Murang'a County.
