20 Years On: Hon. Canon Naomi Waqo Leads Marsabit in Honouring Fallen Peace Heroes

The Woman Representative for Marsabit County, Naomi Waqo, has led the county and the nation in marking a solemn and emotional milestone—20 years since the tragic Marsabit plane crash, one of the most devastating air disasters in Kenya’s history.

On April 10, 2006, a Kenya Air Force aircraft carrying 17 people crashed into the hills near Marsabit National Park under poor weather conditions, claiming the lives of 14 passengers. The victims were not ordinary citizens—they were distinguished leaders, public servants, and peace champions on a critical mission to mediate long-standing community conflicts in Marsabit.

Among those who perished were some of Kenya’s most respected leaders, including Bonaya Godana, former Deputy Leader of the Official Opposition; Guracha Galgallo; Abdi Sasura; Titus Ngoyoni; Mirugi Kariuki; Abdullahi Adan; and William Waqo, alongside other officials, crew members, and peace advocates who gave their lives in service to the nation.

In her moving tribute, Hon. Naomi Waqo described the anniversary as a moment of deep reflection, remembrance, and renewed commitment to the ideals for which the fallen heroes stood. She emphasized that for two decades, their memory has remained a powerful symbol of sacrifice, service, and the fragile nature of life.

“These were men and women who answered the call to serve, who chose the difficult path of peacebuilding, and who paid the ultimate price in pursuit of unity,” she noted. “Their legacy must continue to guide us.”

Hon. Waqo underscored that the mission of the delegation—promoting peace and reconciliation—remains unfinished, and it is now the responsibility of current leaders and communities to carry it forward. She called on all Kenyans, especially those in Marsabit and neighboring regions, to embrace dialogue as the primary tool for resolving conflicts.

As the county commemorates this tragic anniversary, the Woman Representative extended her heartfelt condolences to the families of the departed, acknowledging their enduring pain and resilience. She assured them that the nation continues to honor the memory of their loved ones and remains grateful for their immense contribution to peace and nation-building.

Over the years, leaders and community members have consistently echoed the call to uphold peace as the greatest tribute to those who perished. Hon. Waqo reaffirmed this message, urging citizens to reflect deeply on the values that the fallen leaders stood for.

She called on all to let their legacy guide present and future generations:

* To cherish dialogue over discord.

* To choose unity over division.

* To ensure that peace becomes the lasting inheritance for every family and every community in Marsabit and beyond.

Her message was not only one of remembrance but also a strong call to action. She emphasized that honoring the departed should go beyond memorials and speeches, urging communities to actively foster understanding, compassion, and coexistence in their daily lives.

“On this solemn anniversary, we must commit ourselves to building the peaceful society they envisioned,” she said. “Let us transform our grief into purpose, and our remembrance into action.”

Twenty years later, the pain of the tragedy still lingers, but so does the inspiration drawn from the lives that were lost. Their courage and dedication continue to serve as a beacon of hope and a reminder that peace is both a responsibility and a choice.

In conclusion, Hon. Canon Naomi Waqo’s tribute stands as a powerful reminder that the legacy of the Marsabit air tragedy lies not only in the lives lost but in the enduring call for unity and harmony. As the nation reflects on this historic moment, her message is clear—let peace prevail, today and always.

May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace, and may Kenya continue to strive toward a future defined by unity, compassion, and lasting peace.