A devastating aviation accident has tragically struck Kenya, with at least six people among them MP Johana Ngeno feared dead after a helicopter crashed and burst into flames in Chepkiep village, Mosop Sub-County, Nandi County on Saturday afternoon, 28 February 2026.
Among those reportedly on board and feared dead is Johana Ngeno, the Member of Parliament for Emurua Dikirr Constituency, a senior lawmaker in the 13th Parliament of Kenya.
According to early reports, the helicopter came down at approximately 4:45 p.m., crashing violently before erupting into flames, hampering immediate rescue efforts as thick smoke billowed from the scene.
Local residents rushed to the wreckage in a desperate bid to assist any possible survivors, though the ferocity of the blaze and instability of the aircraft made access extremely dangerous for several minutes.
Nandi County police commander Samuel Mukuusi confirmed that six people are feared to have died in the crash but said the identities of the passengers had not yet been fully verified by authorities, a process that is still underway as emergency crews scour the scene.
Preliminary aviation data indicates that the aircraft involved was an Airbus Helicopters H125 bearing the registration 5Y-DSB, reportedly owned by a company based at Wilson Airport in Nairobi.
The helicopter is believed to have departed Nairobi earlier in the day at around 11:02 a.m., though its intended destination and purpose of the flight remain unclear as investigations begin.
Who Was Johana Ngeno?
Born and raised in a background marked by hardship, MP Johana Ngeno has been a prominent figure in Kenya’s political landscape for more than a decade.
He was first elected as MP for Emurua Dikirr Constituency in 2013 and successfully retained his seat in subsequent elections in 2017 and 2022, representing the interests of his predominantly Kipsigis constituency in Narok County.
Before his political career, Ngeno served as a director at the Agricultural Development Corporation (ADC), and later pursued extensive academic study, including degrees in International Law and Law as well as a Master’s in International Studies.
Over the years he earned a reputation as both a grassroots mobiliser and a vocal legislator.
Ngeno was known for his fiery advocacy on issues ranging from land rights and security to development and community empowerment.
In the past, he drew national attention for his role in mediation efforts during regional disputes, and was often at the centre of public debate over governance and social justice.
A History of Helicopter Accidents in Kenya
While air travel is a key mode of transport for government officials and remote community leaders across Kenya, the country has unfortunately witnessed a number of helicopter accidents over the years.
In June 2012, a Kenya Police helicopter crash near Ngong Forest claimed the lives of six people, including senior government officials.
More recently, in 2024, a crash involving a military helicopter in Elgeyo Marakwet County resulted in the deaths of multiple senior officers, prompting government reviews of aviation safety and calls for stronger oversight of aircraft operations.
Ongoing Investigation and National Impact
At the time of writing, emergency responders remain at the crash site and authorities have sealed off the area as part of initial investigations.
Transport and aviation regulatory agencies are expected to join the inquiry to determine the cause of the crash, examining factors such as mechanical failure, weather conditions, and human error.
Confirmation of Johana Ngeno’s fate among the victims would mark a profound loss for his constituents and colleagues nationwide.
The government and Parliament are likely to issue official statements as more information becomes available.
As details emerge and families await news of their loved ones, Kenyans across the political spectrum are preparing for a period of mourning and reflection on this tragic event.
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