The bodies of three Kenyan nationals who tragically lost their lives in a devastating apartment fire in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, have been successfully repatriated to Kenya. Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko facilitated the return of the remains, offering support to the bereaved families during their time of grief.
The three victims identified as Ian Ndung’u Mungai, Kennedy Kamau Wangari, and Kioko were among the many casualties in the blaze that swept through a residential building in Sharjah last month. The incident sparked concern among the Kenyan diaspora and at home, highlighting the challenges many migrant workers face in the Gulf region.
In a statement, Sonko expressed his condolences to the families and reaffirmed his commitment to assisting distressed Kenyans abroad. “It is a painful loss for the families and for Kenya as a whole. I am doing everything I can to ensure they are laid to rest with dignity,” Sonko said, as he oversaw the arrival of the bodies at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
The former governor, known for his philanthropic work, reportedly covered the costs of the repatriation, including air transport and funeral arrangements. He was accompanied by family members of the deceased and representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
He thanked the Government of Kenya, particularly Principal Secretary for Aviation Terry Mbaika, Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka, the Kenyan Embassy and Consulate in the UAE, and the funeral committee in Sharjah led by Timothy and Hon. Jessica Mbalu, MP for Kibwezi East for helping during the repatriation exercise.
The tragedy has once again cast a spotlight on the welfare of Kenyan migrant workers in the Middle East, with calls for better protection and support mechanisms. Kenya’s embassy in the UAE confirmed that it is working with local authorities to ensure thorough investigations into the cause of the fire and to offer assistance to other affected nationals.
Funeral plans for the three victims are underway in their respective home counties. Meanwhile, Sonko has urged the government to establish a more robust emergency response framework for Kenyans working overseas.
