Colonel Duncan Keitany's Death Coincided With His Wedding Anniversary, Family Says

• Colonel Duncan Keitany died alongside General Francis Ogolla and eight other KDF soldiers in a helicopter crash
• His wife, Norah Chebet, described him as a philanthropic man who shelved his family's needs to provide for the less fortunate
• Keitany, who left behind four children, will be laid to rest on Saturday, April 27, at his home in Eldama Ravine

Nancy Odindo, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings more than three years of experience covering politics, news, and feature stories across digital and print media in Kenya.

The family of Colonel Duncan Keitany, who tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash alongside Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla, continues to grapple with their profound loss.

Norah Chebet, his wife, expresses her ongoing struggle to comprehend the tragedy.

When did Duncan Keitany, Chebet exchange vows?

In an interview with NTV, Chebet revealed that her beloved husband, whom she married 29 years ago, passed away on the same day they exchanged vows.

"We did our wedding on April 18, 1995, and is the same date he passed on. It was supposed to have been our anniversary. We have been married for 29 years. It has been a journey and I thank God though at times we do not want to believe," recalled Chebet.

She recounted being engaged in a medical outreach event when the accident occurred.

Chebet fondly remembered her late husband as her 'best friend' and a selfless philanthropist who prioritised the needs of others over his own.

She shared that Colonel Keitany had numerous aspirations before his life was cut short, and the family is determined to carry on his legacy.

Echoing her sentiments, one of their daughters expressed hope that her father would return home just as he had left.

"He left with all the water and milk bottles. We just knew he would come back," she said.

Colonel Keitany, survived by four children, will be laid to rest at his residence in Eldama Ravine on Saturday, April 26.

Major Magondu's family mourns

In another story, the family of the pilot of the ill-fated helicopter described the deceased as selfless and humble.

Major Benson Magondu had excelled academically from Moi Forces Academy up to Jordan in the United States where he attended his last training.

His family disclosed that his three children miss him as they relentlessly inquire about his return since the tragic accident.

What you need to know about the KDF chopper crash

• General Francis Ogolla, who was among those involved in the accident, was buried after three days
• President William Ruto promised a thorough probe into the accident that claimed 10 lives of the gallant soldiers
• Details have emerged showing that the late KDF boss had resigned from the military but was convinced to stay back

Proofreading by Jackson Otukho, a multimedia journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke