Naema Celestine 
Brian Mang’oli
On 20th November 2023, Wajir County was shaken by two disastrous incidents that caused widespread concern and prompted questions about the safety of military helicopters.
A military helicopter on a relief food supply mission, crashed during take-off in Buna, Wajir North, while a civilian chopper, carrying exam materials, also went down at Wajir International Airport en route to Arbajahan.
Both incidents occurred within a minute of take-off, and resulted in injuries. These incidents were not isolated, and in the current year, there had been other helicopter crashes involving military choppers. In November 2023, two Kenya Defence Forces pilots were hospitalized after their chopper crashed in the Kisamis area, Kajiado West. On 9th November, a Kenya Air Force Fennec helicopter struck a power cable while en route to Nairobi.
In July 2023, a chopper carrying government officials, including Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, crashed in Chemolingot Stadium, Baringo County, during take-off while on a security tour of the volatile area. Despite the helicopter hitting a tree, everyone onboard survived. In June 2021, a military chopper crashed in Kajiado during a routine training mission, resulting in the loss of at least 10 Kenya Defence Forces soldiers. The helicopter circled for over 20 minutes as those onboard attempted to evacuate, before the crash. These incidents have raised concerns about the safety, maintenance, and operational standards of military choppers, and the need for improvement.
The loss of lives in this devastating military helicopter crash serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those who selflessly serve their country. The Sindar region, already scarred by previous incidents, now bears the burden of yet another painful chapter in its history.
As news of this latest catastrophe spreads, grief and anguish grip the hearts of the Sindar region’s inhabitants. The loss of esteemed military personnel, such as Chief of Defence Forces Francis Ogolla, strikes a deep blow to the community, leaving them grappling with a profound sense of sorrow and disbelief. The void left by these brave individuals is immeasurable, as their dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to protecting the nation will forever be remembered
