Tourism Ministry mourns 7 killed in Samburu helicopter crash
Seven people, including five American citizens, died in a helicopter crash near Mount Ololokwe in Samburu County, Kenya. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the accident involving a Eurocopter EC130 B4.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the risks associated with tourism-related aviation in remote regions and has prompted international diplomatic attention.
Remains of the crashed helicopter/ HANDOUT
The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has condoled with the families and loved ones of seven people who died when a helicopter crashed near Mount Ololokwe in Samburu County on Wednesday.
In a statement issued following the August 19 crash, the ministry said it stood with the bereaved families, friends and others affected by the incident.
“The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife conveys its deepest condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of the seven people who tragically lost their lives in the helicopter crash in Samburu on 19 August 2026,” the ministry said.
The helicopter, carrying six tourists and a pilot, crashed near Mount Ololokwe at about 9.13am on Wednesday, according to the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA). The aircraft was flying from Loisaba to the Ewaso Nyiro area when the accident occurred.
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