- Kenya Red Cross volunteer Samuel Wanyonyi Wangila lost his life during a rescue operation in Nairobi
- Wanyonyi served in the agency for over 15 years, earning praise for her courage, professionalism and dedication to saving lives
- When news of his death was announced, condolences poured in from family, friends, colleagues and those he mentored across the country.
The Kenya Red Cross has mourned the sudden death of one of its Water Rescue volunteers, Samuel Wanyonyi Wangila.
Source: Facebook
In a statement distributed on its social media pages, the humanitarian organization offered moving condolences in honor of the hero who died on March 3.
How did Red Cross volunteer Samuel Wanyonyi die?
The agency reported that Wanyonyi lost his life while at work in Nairobi.
Samuel had responded to an ongoing water rescue operation following an emergency call at Highrise along the Mbagathi River, where a young boy tragically drowned.
Sadly, fate had other sad plans for his family.
“For more than 15 years, Samuel served across the country with courage, professionalism and extraordinary commitment to saving lives. He was among our most experienced and reliable water rescue volunteers. In 2025, he received a Special Recognition Award at the Volunteer Awards for his work in water rescue across the country,” the organization noted.
Furthermore, Wanyonyi was very committed to strengthening the community’s capacity. He trained and mentored fellow volunteers in water rescue, giving them the practical skills and confidence needed to effectively respond to emergencies.
“We will remember him for building skilled rescue teams, advising others with patience and answering the call to serve at all times. Today, we honor his bravery and service. Samuel gave his life while trying to help others, a true example of humanity and selflessness,” read the statement of the Kenya Red Cross.
The Red Cross also expressed its condolences to Wanyonyi’s family, offering prayers and heartfelt words of comfort to his wife, relatives, friends and fellow volunteers.
“We stand with them as they mourn their lives dedicated to serving others. Rest in peace, Samuel. Your legacy lives on in every life you saved,” said Ahmed Idris.
Kenyans mourn Samuel Wanyonyi
Arnold Glue:
“A humble man has rested in the line of serving humanity. One of the greatest divers of KRCS, Wangila was always ready. May his soul rest in eternal peace. I once met him during a tough training session in Nairobi, and his contributions were immense. Rest in peace, fellow RCAT member.”
Hon Saria
“It is sad to hear about the fall of the ‘legend’. As one of his students in the Mombasa water rescue team, I will carry on his legacy and will always remember his words to the Mombasa branch water team: ‘TAKE YOUR TIME’. Safe.”
Stephen Daniel Kariuki Jnr
“We are comforted by Samuel’s family at this very difficult time. Samuel, you wore the emblem not as a badge, but as a promise. Against the wrath of the waters, you upheld the law of humanity, that no life is a stranger, and no rescue is too great a cost. Your role may be over, but your legacy begins. Rest in peace, friend.”
How did a Kenyan police officer die a few days before his wedding?
In other news, TUKO.co.ke reported that Martin Cheruiyot, an administrative police officer, lost his life in the line of duty.
Cheruiyot was killed along with six others along the border of Lamu and Tana River counties by suspected al-Shabaab militants in 2022.
Before the tragedy, the young man was expected to marry his fiancée, Mercy, on April 15, 2022, after the operation, but sadly he did not return home alive.
Read ENGLISH VERSION
Do you have an exciting story that you would like us to publish? Please contact us via news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
