- Nurse Jacobeth Jeptoo has received national recognition for her courageous response to the helicopter crash that killed MP Johana Ng’eno and five others
- Jeptoo rushed to the scene in Nandi County and attempted to help the victims despite the dangerous conditions
- President William Ruto also honoured other Kenyans and unveiled a biography of freedom fighter Ramogi Achieng’ Oneko
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Harry Ivan Mboto is a Current Affairs and Politics Editor at TUKO.co.ke, covering general news. Mboto has five years of journalism experience and joined TUKO.co.ke in 2024
President William Ruto has honoured Jacobeth Jeptoo, a nurse whose courageous response to a fatal helicopter crash that killed Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ng’eno and five other people earned her national recognition.
Source: Facebook
Jeptoo was among the Kenyans recognised during the 2026 National Honours investiture at State Lodge in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, on Tuesday, October 20, following the Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kipchoge Keino Stadium.
She was recognised for rushing to help victims of the February 28 helicopter crash in Chepkiep, Mosop Constituency, Nandi County. The aircraft, which was carrying Ng’eno and five others, went down and burst into flames, killing all six people on board.
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The tragedy sparked widespread grief, with Jeptoo drawing public attention after arriving at the scene wearing gloves and attempting to assist the victims despite the dangerous conditions.
Why was Jacobeth Jeptoo feted during Mashujaa Day?
Her citation praised her “extraordinary courage and selflessness in safeguarding the right to life”.
It further described her “brave first response and life-saving assistance under perilous circumstances” as an example of “exceptional humanity, compassion, and unwavering respect for human dignity”.
Jeptoo’s actions stood out as an example of how ordinary citizens can make a difference during emergencies by stepping forward to help others, even when doing so comes with considerable risks.
At the time of the crash, she had recently completed her community health nurse training at Kendu Bay Adventist School of Medical Sciences and was awaiting her qualifying examinations.
Her recognition came as part of the annual national honours programme, which celebrates Kenyans whose service, sacrifice and contribution have made a difference to society.
Ruto presided over the ceremony, awarding medals to people from different sectors in recognition of their contributions to the country. He said the national honours reflected Kenya’s gratitude to citizens whose actions demonstrated patriotism, sacrifice and a commitment to serving others.
The 2026 honours list was recommended by the National Heroes Council, which identifies individuals whose contributions have positively affected their communities and the nation.
Ruto presides over Achieng Oneko biography launch
During a luncheon at Eldoret State Lodge, Ruto also presided over the unveiling of a biography of freedom fighter Ramogi Achieng’ Oneko, one of the six Kenyan nationalists detained by the British colonial government in 1952 for their role in the independence struggle.
The book documents Oneko’s life and his contribution to Kenya’s liberation movement. The Kapenguria Six comprised Jomo Kenyatta, Oneko, Bildad Kaggia, Fred Kubai, Kung’u Karumba and Paul Ngei. Their detention became a defining episode in the fight against colonial rule.
Ruto said Kenya should continue honouring those who sacrificed for independence while celebrating contemporary heroes whose actions protect the dignity and welfare of fellow citizens.
Source: TUKO.co.ke