Rescuer Samuel Wangila to Be Laid to Rest on Saturday in Emotional Ceremony in Bungoma

The body of Samuel Wanyonyi Wangila (1992–2026), a respected aqua diver, humanitarian responder and emergency rescue leader, will be laid to rest  on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Sirakaru Village, Bungoma County, following a deeply moving burial programme that has drawn family, colleagues, friends and emergency responders from across the country.

Wangila died on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, during a rescue operation in flood-hit areas of Nairobi. He was assisting in the search for the body of a missing young man in Nyayo Highrise, in Kibera, when he accidentally came into contact with a live electric wire submerged in floodwaters. His sudden death has been described as a tragic loss to the humanitarian sector.

A Life Dedicated to Saving Others

Wangila was widely known for his commitment to emergency response and water rescue operations. He served as a leader within the Kenya Red Cross Society, rising to become the Action Team Leader for Kiambu County and a member of the National Disaster Response Team. He also led the Aqua Rescue Team, participating in numerous life-saving missions.

Professionally, he worked as a lifeguard at Wadi Degla Club for the past four years, where he strengthened his expertise in water safety and rescue operations. His leadership extended to serving as a board member of the Kenya Lifesaving Federation, contributing to the promotion of lifesaving training and water safety awareness.

He collaborated closely with emergency units, including local fire brigades, in responding to floods, drowning incidents and other disasters. Colleagues describe him as courageous, disciplined and selfless — a man who lived for others and died while serving.

Early Life and Education

Born on October 9, 1992, in Kiambu County, Wangila was the third-born son of David Wakhunga and Zipporah Wanjala. He was the grandson of the late Peter and Rosina Wanyonyi, and the late Antony and Kenzia. He was a brother to the late Amos and Phoebe, Emmanuel Simiyu, Anthony Wanyonyi, Francis Wanjara, Peter Wanyonyi and Mark Mukhebi, among others.

He attended Ngegu Primary School and later Kiambu Township High School. It was in Form One that he discovered his passion for humanitarian work through the Red Cross club — a decision that shaped the rest of his life.

In 2018, he married Joan Wanjiku. Together they were blessed with two children, Elan Wangila and Klarissa Wangila. He is remembered as a devoted husband and loving father who balanced family life with demanding rescue duties.

Funeral Programme

The burial programme began on Friday, March 13, 2026, with travel arrangements from Nairobi to Eldoret between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., followed by travel from Eldoret to Sirakaru Village, Bungoma County, between 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. A service was held at his home from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Today’s programme began at 9:00 a.m. with a procession from the home to the service venue, followed by praise and worship, scripture readings, tributes from family members, colleagues, responders and community representatives, including the Kenya Red Cross and other emergency partners.

The service also includes the reading of the eulogy, offerings, sermon, prayers for the family, vote of thanks, and the procession to the gravesite for burial. The ceremony will conclude with a closing prayer and benediction.

The eulogy quoted from the Book of Psalms, stating: “Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.” (Psalm 116:15).

Tributes and Legacy

Family members described Wangila as a pillar of strength and a guiding light. His wife reflected on their journey together since 2018, calling him her companion, strength and close friend. Colleagues praised his leadership in disaster response, while friends and neighbours remembered his kindness and willingness to help anyone in need.

Speakers emphasized that Wangila was not only a rescuer but also a mentor and patriot who dedicated his life to protecting communities. His work in flood response and water safety left a lasting impact on the emergency services sector.

As he is laid to rest today in Bungoma County, mourners say his legacy will live on through the lives he saved, the teams he led and the humanitarian values he championed.

Samuel Wanyonyi Wangila will be remembered as a hero who lived in service of others — and died while answering the call to save a life.