Kisumu family appeals for help to repatriate kin's body from Lebanon

By Faith Matete

A family in Kisumu is appealing for help to repatriate the body of its daughter who died in Lebanon.

Christine Brandy Joshua, 35, died at Rafik Hariri University Hospital in Beirut where her body has since been preserved.

Her family in Kamrongo village in Kisumu East constituency has asked well-wishers and the government for help.

Christine's elder sister Caroline Adhiambo said she left the country in search of better opportunities abroad.

The family says they need Sh1.8 million to transport Christine's remains back to Kenya. This even as mortuary charges estimated at Sh5,000 per day continue to accumulate.

Christine's 18-year-old daughter Santada Chenogol termed the death a deep loss that the family is yet to come to terms with.

She said her mother was their sole provider.

“My mother was everything to us. She struggled so much to provide, and now we don’t even have the means to bring her back home,” a tearful Santada said.

According to the family, Christine had been receiving medical support from Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), which helped cover her hospital bills during her treatment.

However, that support did not extend to the cost of repatriating her remains, leaving the family stranded.

Caroline said the family wishes to have Christine's body brought back home for a decent burial.

“Our deepest wish is to lay Christine to rest at home, surrounded by family and friends. But right now, we are struggling even to consider how that will happen,” she said.

The family has written to the State Department for Diaspora Affairs, appealing for urgent government intervention to facilitate the repatriation of Christine’s body.

However, they say they haven't received any response.

The financial strain has pushed the family to consider cremation and the transportation of ashes as a last resort an option they say goes against traditions and family wishes.

“We want to give our sister a dignified burial at home, but we are being pushed to the wall,” Obuya added.

Christine’s uncle Tom Odiga warned that delays could make the situation even more difficult, noting that costs continue to rise each day.

“Every passing day adds to the expenses. Without support, bringing her home may remain out of reach,” he said.

Her cousin Barrack Ochieng called on both national and county governments and well-wishers to support the family.

The situation has been further complicated by ongoing instability in Lebanon, which the family says has made coordination with authorities and potential supporters more challenging.

Those willing to support the family can channel their contributions through Caroline Adhiambo Obuya via M-Pesa on 0721949291.

The family is hoping they will be able to bring Christine's body home and accord her the dignified farewell she deserves.

End.