A sombre mood engulfed CITAM Nyali as family, friends, and colleagues gathered to bid farewell to Mitchelle Jelimo Kemboi, the daughter of Captain William Ruto, in an emotional requiem mass attended by members of the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) fraternity.
The service was marked by deep grief, solemn prayers, and quiet reflection, as mourners struggled to come to terms with the loss of a young life. The pain was evident on the faces of attendees, reflecting the profound sorrow of a family and community united in mourning.
Captain Ruto, visibly shaken, was surrounded by loved ones who stood by him during one of the most difficult moments of his life. Clergy and speakers delivered messages of comfort and hope, urging the family to find strength in faith even as they faced an unimaginable loss.
Among those present was Philip Mainga, a longtime friend and colleague of Captain Ruto. His presence stood out as a symbol of unwavering support, as he remained by the grieving father’s side throughout the service.
Observers noted his quiet strength and constant presence, offering comfort without words.
“He never left his side. That is what true friendship looks like—standing firm when everything else is falling apart,” one mourner said.
Tributes during the service described Mitchelle as a bright and cherished soul whose life, though tragically short, touched many. Speakers remembered her as full of promise, love, and warmth—qualities that endeared her to those who knew her.
As the ceremony came to a close, mourners filed out in silence, many visibly emotional, others deep in thought. Despite the heavy grief, a sense of unity and shared compassion prevailed, underscoring the strength of community in times of loss.
Mitchelle Jelimo Kemboi will be remembered as a dearly loved daughter and a life gone too soon.
