Young nurse Jacobeth Jeptoo, who rushed to the scene of the fatal Nandi helicopter crash and attempted to save the victims, has been nominated for recognition as a national hero, putting her among hundreds of Kenyans proposed for honour ahead of the 2026 Mashujaa Day celebrations.

The National Heroes Council has opened public review of a list of 242 Kenyans proposed for consideration as national heroes, with Jeptoo’s name appearing under the Human Rights Heroes category. Members of the public have until September 15, 2026, to submit objections or representations before the Council prepares its final list. 

Jeptoo captured national attention after the February 28, 2026 helicopter crash in Chepkiep, Mosop, Nandi County, which claimed the lives of Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ng’eno and five other occupants. Parliament subsequently confirmed the deaths and paid tribute to the late lawmaker and the other victims. 

According to reports, Jeptoo was at her home when she heard the crash. She and her mother rushed towards the scene, where they found the helicopter wreckage engulfed in flames.

Realising that medical assistance could be needed, Jeptoo reportedly ran back home to collect her medical gloves before returning to the crash site.

She attempted to provide first aid to a victim who was still showing signs of life. Despite her efforts, however, all six people on board eventually died. 

Her actions were subsequently praised by the Nursing Council of Kenya, which commended her courage, professionalism and commitment to saving lives under extremely difficult circumstances.

At the time, Jeptoo had recently completed a Community Health Nursing course at Kendu Bay Adventist School of Medical Sciences and was awaiting her Kenya Nursing Council qualifying examinations.

Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei also stepped in to support the young nurse, announcing that he had paid her pending school fees and examination costs to facilitate her clearance and registration as a practising nurse. He further pledged to support her journey towards securing professional placement. 

The tragedy that brought Jeptoo into the national spotlight involved the death of Ng’eno, who was serving his third consecutive term as Emurua Dikirr MP. The five others who died alongside him were retired Lt. Col. George Were, Nicholas Kiplangat Koskei, Amos Kipngetich Rotich, Robert Kipkoech Keter and Wycliffe Kiprotich Rono. 

A preliminary investigation later indicated that thick fog, drizzle and extremely low visibility preceded the crash. Investigators said the helicopter had landed temporarily in an open field because of poor visibility before taking off again and crashing approximately 200 metres away. 

Jeptoo's nomination now places her among Kenyans being considered for national recognition, with her story emerging as one of courage, compassion and selfless service in the face of tragedy.

However, the nomination should not yet be described as a final national hero award. The National Heroes Council is still conducting public participation before the final list is determined.