The Kenya Wildlife Service has confirmed the death of Samuel Macharia Wanjohi, a porter who disappeared while hiking the Sirimon–Shipton route within Mt. Kenya National Park on December 23, 2025. His body was discovered on January 9, 2026, in Hinde Valley at approximately 4,300 meters elevation.
Following the disappearance report, KWS immediately deployed its Mountain Search and Rescue Unit and filed a police report at Chogoria Police Station.
The service conducted round-the-clock search operations across multiple locations including Shipton Camp, Austrian Hut, Mackinder’s Valley, and other areas, using both aerial and ground teams despite challenging weather and terrain.
The multi-agency effort involved experienced rangers, the National Police Service, and local mountain guides and porters, including Mr. Wanjohi’s family members.
The mountain community’s determination and cooperation played a vital role throughout the search.
KWS has expressed its deepest sympathies to Mr. Wanjohi’s family, colleagues, and the Mt. Kenya mountain community.
The service reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing safety protocols and emergency response capabilities in Kenya’s mountain protected areas.
