Ruto pledges jobs, education support for each family of Ngeno’s aides

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President William Ruto Friday, announced a series of support measures for the families of four aides who died alongside Johana Ngeno, the late Emurua Dikirr MP, in a tragic helicopter crash.

Speaking during the funeral service held in Dikirr, the President said the government would step in to support the bereaved families through employment opportunities, education assistance and financial aid.

Ruto announced that the government would provide Sh8 million to assist the four families, with each family receiving Sh2 million to help address immediate needs.

“I have listened carefully to the issues raised by these families and how they were being supported by our brother Ngeno,” Ruto said.

“Some of them have small financial challenges and we want to stand with them during this difficult time.”

“In the meantime, I am giving Sh8 million so that each of the four families receives Sh2 million,” he added, directing Narok Governor Patrick Ntutu to help coordinate the distribution and identify other needs facing the families.

Beyond the financial support, the President also announced targeted assistance for each of the affected families based on their circumstances.

For the family of Wycliffe Rono (a former protocol officer in Narok county) whose widow studied agriculture, Ruto directed Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, who was present, to ensure she secures employment in the Ministry of Agriculture.

“The family of Wycliffe has told us that his wife studied agriculture. Head of Public Service, please make sure that she gets a job in the Ministry of Agriculture,” he said.

The President also addressed the case of Carlos (Robert Keter), who had recently secured a job as a teacher but died before he could receive his first salary.

He had initially worked in his office while he was the DP.

“Carlos had just received his appointment letter as a teacher, but he had not even received one month’s salary. We have agreed that the opportunity be given to his sister, who has also trained as a teacher,” Ruto announced.

For the family of Nicholas Koskei (Ngeno's cameraman), the President acknowledged their housing challenges and promised government intervention.

“The family of Nicholas told us they do not have a place to live. Before I leave here, we will speak so that we can find a place where they can settle,” he said.

Ruto also pledged education support for the family of Amos Rotich, noting that one of the children is currently studying at university.

“There is a young man in that family who is in university. That one is easy, I will take care of his education,” the President said.

He also called on local leaders to assist in educating other children left behind in the family.

“Where is Sonko? Nelson Koech (Belgut MP), you take one child and educate them. And Brighton, you take another one,” he said, referring to Konoin MP Brighton Yegon.

Turning to the MP (Yegon) amid laughter from mourners, the President jokingly added: “Can it defeat you? If it becomes difficult, come and look for me.”

The announcement drew applause from mourners attending the emotional ceremony, which brought together leaders and residents to pay their final respects to the late MP and his aides.

The four aides died alongside Ngeno in the February 28 helicopter crash in Nandi County while returning from an event in Endebess, Trans Nzoia County.

Ruto praised the young men for their dedication and service, saying their work and commitment would not be forgotten.

“These young men served their leader and their community with dedication. As a country, we must stand with their families and ensure that their dreams do not die with them,” the President said.

Ngeno, Rono, Rotich and Carlos were laid to rest on Friday at their homes.

Nick will be buried on Saturday.