The Kenyan government has announced plans to address the situation of a Kenyan student who passed away in Russia. Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs, Roseline Njogu, responded to the outcry of concerned Kenyans following the drowning of 20-year-old Enock Odhiambo in Moscow, Russia.
Odhiambo, a government-sponsored student studying International Relations, tragically lost his life on July 5. He had completed his high school education in 2022 and was awarded a government-funded scholarship to pursue his studies in Moscow. Although classes were scheduled to commence in September 2023, his family requested a postponement for him to study the language before moving. Enock traveled to Russia on May 4, eager to embark on his academic journey.
On the day of the tragedy, Odhiambo went swimming with two friends he had made in Moscow. Unfortunately, his friends were unaware that he was a novice swimmer. Joshua Otieno, Enoch’s older brother, revealed that the family received a call from the institution notifying them that Enoch had tragically drowned.
According to Joshua, Enoch preferred basketball over swimming and likely wandered into the deep end of the pool accidentally. His friends noticed his distress when he began screaming for help, but despite their attempts to rescue him, they were unsuccessful. Before assistance could be sought, Enoch vanished into the water, remaining submerged for an extended period. It took six hours to retrieve his lifeless body from the large pool.
“It has only been two months since he moved to Russia,” the heartbroken father narrated, adding that the family needs KSh1 million to cover the costs of returning the body and morgue charges. Odhiambo’s family has requested assistance in raising the necessary funds.
In response to the situation, Principal Secretary Njogu stated, “Thank you for tagging us on this; we’re on it. Pole sana to his family.” The State Department for Diaspora Affairs also mentioned plans to collaborate with its Russian counterparts, though additional information on how to assist the family was not provided. Nevertheless, the government’s response was praised by Kenyans.
“It is our sincere wish to bring him back to Kenya to be laid to rest among his family and loved ones. Please send your contributions through the given details. Your help will be highly appreciated,” read part of the family’s appeal.
The tragic incident underscores the importance of safety awareness for students abroad and the need for supportive measures from both the home and host countries. The Kenyan government’s swift response is a step towards ensuring that Enock Odhiambo’s family can bring him home and lay him to rest.
