NAIROBI: Veteran Red Cross Diver Reported Dead During Rescue Operation
The Kenya Red Cross has reported the loss of one of its expert divers during a recovery mission for a 17-year-old boy in Nairobi.
Samuel Wangila was confirmed dead on Tuesday, March 3, just days after search and rescue activities for a Grade 9 kid began when he was swept away by the roaring floods of the Nairobi River near Nyayo Highrise development on Mbagathi Road.
“The Kenya Red Cross Society is deeply saddened by the passing of our dedicated Aqua Rescue volunteer Samuel Wangila, who lost his life in the line of duty on March 3,” a statement from the body read.
“He was among our most experienced rescue volunteers.”
We mourn the loss of our dedicated Aqua Rescue volunteer, Samuel Wanyonyi Wangila, who gave his life in the line of duty.
— Kenya Red Cross (@KenyaRedCross) March 4, 2026
For over 15 years, he served with courage and compassion, saving lives and mentoring others.
Rest in peace, Samuel. Your legacy lives on. pic.twitter.com/d3113yMSXU
The Red Cross did not reveal the specific circumstances of Wangila’s death.
However, it is likely he was overcome by the sheer force of the Nairobi River, which has risen since the heavy rains began in late February.
Wangila was one of several divers entrusted with recovering the remains of a Grade 9 student who was swept away by flooding waters in the Nairobi River on Friday, February 28.
The student and a friend were strolling along Mbagathi Road near Nyayo Highrise Estate when they attempted to cross a swollen river caused by recent rains as a shortcut to football practice.
Witnesses report that the floodwaters were moving quickly. The Grade 9 kid lost his footing and was swept away toward a nearby waterfall, disappearing beneath the tumultuous stream.
TRAGIC ACCIDENT
— KBC Channel 1 News (@KBCChannel1) March 4, 2026
Kenya Red Cross rescue officer dies at Mukuru Kayaba area
Samuel Wangila was electrocuted by loose electric cable in Mbagathi River
The officers were among four rescuers searching for the body of a boy who drowned#KBCniYetu @KenyaRedCross pic.twitter.com/zhMZesOa2M
His companion, who was with him, confirmed that he was taken away before they could reach him.
Floodwaters, no matter how shallow they appear, can be exceedingly deadly.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has repeatedly warned that swollen rivers can sweep people off their feet within seconds, regardless of age or physical strength.
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Despite divers’ expertise in raging waters, they are still prone to dangers as strong currents, debris, spray‑soaked riverbeds, and low visibility make every mission life-threatening.
The tragedy in Mbagathi came days after two men, a driver and passenger, are still missing after the Land Cruiser, a tourist vehicle they were travelling in, was swept away at Mararianta bridge in Narok County.
Residents have since faulted the county government, claiming that the bridge is in a deplorable condition, as they faulted the governor for what they describe as minimal efforts to rehabilitate it.
The Mararianta bridge connects the Transmara and Narok towns, and locals are calling for its development, noting that the river claimed the lives of locals before the recent development.
NAIROBI: Veteran Red Cross Diver Reported Dead During Rescue Operation
