The heart-wrenching demise of Sergeant Rose Nyawira in a helicopter crash, alongside Chief of Defence Forces Fred Ogolla and nine other military officers, has plunged her family into profound grief.

Initially dismissing the news of the tragic incident as a jest, Sergeant Nyawira's family was shattered when the grim reality of her passing was confirmed by a relative.

Serving as CDF Ogolla's official photographer, Nyawira was cherished by her family for her promising future. Her brother, Martin Kinyua, expressed their disbelief, stating, "We thought it was a joke until our uncle confirmed her passing. My sister had a very bright future."

Hailing from Kagio area in Mwea, Nyawira's father, Peter Wachira Kariuki, reminisced about his last moments with his daughter, recalling her visit just days before the accident. Overcome with sorrow, he expressed his profound loss, saying, "She was here on Sunday, and we had a great time together. I also saw her off despite the heavy rains. We will miss her."

Nyawira's untimely departure prompted an outpouring of tributes from her classmates at Multimedia University of Kenya on social media platforms. Joy Wayodi bid her farewell, saying, "Rest in peace, my classmate Rose," while Heat Dealer fondly remembered her as one of the purest souls he had encountered, highlighting her kindness and forgiving nature.

Brian Otieno, another classmate, lamented Nyawira's premature passing, reminiscing about their joyful days at university. "She was just Rozie to us. Those days at Multimedia University studying Journalism. A happy girl always, who held on tight to her crew, but always mingled with the rest. May she rest well," he mourned.

Tragically, Nyawira lost her life while accompanying CDF Ogolla to Elgeiyo Marakwet County. Alongside her, a total of 10 individuals perished in the helicopter crash, leaving behind a void in the lives of their loved ones and colleagues.