Leaders Gather in Sondu for Burial of Pilot George Were
News Updated: 14 March 2026 23:54 EAT
Leaders led by Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, Oscar sudi, Ps Raymond omollo converge at the burial of Captain George Were In Nyakach - Kadiang’a
Leaders from across the political divide on Saturday attended the burial of helicopter pilot George Were in Sondu, weeks after the aircraft he was flying crashed in Nandi County killing six people.
Were died on February 28 when a helicopter he was piloting went down in Chepkiep area of Mosop in Nandi County. Among those who perished in the crash was Johana Ng'eno, the Member of Parliament for Emurua Dikirr.
The funeral attracted several political leaders including Raymond Omollo, Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa and Oscar Sudi, who joined family and friends in paying their last respects.
Speaking during the burial, Omollo described the late pilot as a dedicated professional who served the country with commitment in the aviation sector. He said the government recognised the sacrifices made by pilots who ensure safe transport across the country.
Karua told mourners that Were was a skilled pilot who had served many leaders and Kenyans faithfully in his career. She recalled working with him during previous engagements and said his death was a painful loss to the aviation fraternity.
Wamalwa also paid tribute to the pilot, noting that the tragedy had robbed the country of an experienced aviator whose services had supported many national assignments. He called for continued prayers and support for the bereaved family.
Kapseret MP Sudi said the helicopter crash that claimed Were’s life and that of five others was a tragic reminder of the risks faced by aviation professionals. He urged authorities to ensure thorough investigations into the accident.
Family members remembered Were as a gentle and peace‑loving man who valued his family deeply and was passionate about his work as a pilot. His widow told mourners that he always prioritised peace and unity within his family and community.
His children described him as a caring father and role model who guided them with kindness and humility throughout their lives. They said he was respected not only as a parent but also as a mentor.
The burial ceremony drew hundreds of residents and leaders who gathered to honour his life and service to the aviation industry.
The late pilot had been flying the helicopter carrying six occupants when it crashed while en route from Wilson Airport, with all those on board losing their lives in the accident.
The tragedy shocked the nation and prompted calls for investigations into the cause of the crash as well as renewed focus on aviation safety.
Authorities previously said the wreckage and flight equipment from the aircraft were recovered from the crash site to aid investigators in determining what caused the accident.
Other victims of the crash were buried earlier as families across different counties conducted separate funeral ceremonies for their loved ones.
As mourners laid Were to rest in Sondu, leaders urged Kenyans to remember the lives lost in the Nandi helicopter crash and to support the families left behind by the tragedy.
Tags: Edit Martha Karua Oscar Sudi Political Parties Politics Raymond Omollo Signs Media Kenya Limited Signsmedia Signstv Signstvkenya
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FELIX MAKONA
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