The black box of the AMREF light aircraft that crashed in Mwihoko, Githurai, Kiambu County, on Thursday evening has been recovered by the Disaster Response Team, marking a crucial step in determining the cause of the tragedy.
Githurai Assistant County Commissioner (ACC) Charity Gatobu confirmed the recovery, praising the rescue team for their swift and coordinated efforts. “We hope the relevant authorities will get to the bottom of the matter, as we continue to clear out any remaining parts of the plane and the rubble,” she said.
The crash claimed the lives of all four people onboard and two on the ground, leaving two others injured. The Kiambu County Government, in collaboration with the Kenya Red Cross, AMREF, the military, and other emergency services, continues its recovery operations at the site. The teams are clearing debris, recovering plane parts, and ensuring any hazardous materials are removed from the area.
Governor Kimani Wamatangi, who visited the affected families, conveyed his condolences and pledged immediate support. “The County Government of Kiambu Rescue Team, including firefighters and the medical team, joined the rescue mission yesterday. I send my heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives and commit to supporting those affected,” he stated.
The Governor assured that the 22 families whose homes and property were destroyed will receive immediate compensation to help them rebuild. Plans are underway for a Monday meeting with relevant officials to ensure all victims receive assistance, including medical aid and psychosocial support.
Githurai Municipality Manager Elijah Ndungu commended the quick response of emergency crews, crediting their swift action with preventing the fire from spreading further. “If it wasn’t for you, the whole estate would have been razed by the flames. This is a selfless job, and we thank you,” he noted.
The county’s preparedness was bolstered by a recent year-long training program at the Kiambu Fire and Rescue Training Centre, conducted by the Polish Centre for International Aid, focusing on urban search, rescue, and disaster response.
With the black box now in the hands of investigators, authorities hope to soon uncover the cause of the fatal crash, bringing closure to the grieving families and the community.
