The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has launched an investigation into a tragic aircraft crash that occurred on Saturday afternoon, claiming the lives of two pilots. The incident involved a Grob 120A aircraft, which was on a routine training mission when it crashed in Mafundani village, near Mwakijembe Primary School in Kwale County.
According to a statement released by KDF, the aircraft experienced an emergency before going down. Sadly, both pilots on board lost their lives in the crash. Military investigators have since been dispatched to the scene to determine the cause of the accident.
“KDF regrets to confirm that both pilots on board the aircraft died in the incident. A team of investigators has been sent to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash,” read the official statement. The KDF also conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, stating: “May the Almighty Lord rest the souls of the departed heroes in peace and grant their families fortitude at this time of deep sorrow.”
The tragedy adds to a growing list of military aviation accidents in Kenya in recent years, raising concerns over safety, especially during training and patrol missions.
In April 2024, a Bell UH‑1H Huey II helicopter crash in Elgeyo Marakwet claimed the life of Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla along with nine other officers. In November 2023, two KDF pilots were injured after a Fennec helicopter struck a power line and crashed in the Kisamis area, Kajiado West. The same model had crashed just four months earlier in Baringo County, although all occupants escaped unhurt.
In September 2023, eight personnel died in Lamu County when a Huey helicopter crashed during a night patrol. A Mi17 helicopter also crashed in November the same year shortly after take-off from Buna Hospital in Wajir North, injuring several occupants.
The deadliest recent crash occurred in 2021 when a Kenya Air Force chopper went down in Oltepesi, Kajiado County, killing 10 and injuring 13.
With multiple crashes in just a few years, the spotlight is now on KDF’s training protocols and aircraft maintenance. The outcome of the Kwale investigation may provide answers and perhaps lead to reforms to prevent further loss of life.
