Ng’eno tragically died on Saturday, February 28, in a helicopter crash in Chepkiep, Mosop, Nandi County. The privately owned helicopter, registered 5Y-DSB, reportedly hit a tree and caught fire shortly after takeoff following a weather-related delay.
All six people on board, including Captain George Were, Amos Kipngetich Rotich, Nick Kosgey, Wycliffe Kiprotich Rono, and Robert Kipkoech Keter, perished in the accident.
Dignitaries at the service included President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
Addressing the mourners, Ole Kina spoke about the profound pain of losing Ng’eno and encouraged literature students to note his tribute. He recited a poetic homage highlighting Ng’eno’s bravery and dedication:
“If hell had a door, I would walk right back to get you, Johana. Your fire burned too fiercely, too brightly for your people, for your land, and for justice. Today we are broken but not defeated, for you taught us to fight, not surrender, to be fearless.”
He lauded Ng’eno’s commitment to defending vulnerable communities and speaking out on land and environmental issues:
“You faced eviction not as a man fleeing power, but as a shield for the powerless. From the Mau Forest to Maasai Mara and Kuria, your voice rumbled like a storm refusing to be silenced.”
Ole Kina emphasized that Ng’eno transformed the struggles of his people into courage that inspired others:
“You carried your people’s pain in your chest and turned it into courage that shook those who profit from fear. The sky may have taken your life, but your spirit—the restless, defiant flame—remains with us.
Johana, if I could, I would storm through hell to bring you back. But you would tell me to stop fighting and keep standing. That is what we will do. Rest now, warrior; we will carry your spirit into every battle left unfinished.”
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