The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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The two Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officers who died in Saturday’s plane crash in Kwale County have been identified as Major Evander Ochieng Amondi and Lieutenant DM Nzuva.
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The crash occurred on June 14, 2025, shortly after their fixed-wing aircraft went down in Mafundani village, soon after taking off from Mombasa International Airport.
Maj Amondi, who was serving as the flight instructor, and Lt Nzuva, a trainee pilot, were both attached to the KDF’s Aviation Centre of Excellence. They died on the spot.
Notably, Maj Amondi led a fly-past formation during this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations held on June 1 in Homa Bay. Colleagues described him as a highly respected instructor who had trained numerous military pilots.
The aircraft, a Kenya Air Force Grob 120A, was on a training mission when it experienced an emergency in the Mwakijembe Primary School area of Ndavaya, Kwale.
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Authorities say the cause of the crash remains unknown. Emergency teams, including Kenya Air Force investigators and police, were dispatched to secure the scene and begin recovery efforts.
In a statement released Sunday, KDF confirmed the deaths and announced that a probe into the incident is underway.
“With deep sadness, we confirm the passing of both pilots. Kenya Air Force has constituted and dispatched investigation teams to determine the cause of the crash,” read the KDF statement.
Military aircraft accidents have become increasingly frequent, with ageing fleets partly blamed. KDF has repeatedly appealed for increased funding to replace older aircraft and enhance safety. Some past crashes remain unresolved.
