A family in Kisumu is urgently seeking assistance to repatriate the body of their daughter, Christine Brandy Joshua, who passed away in Lebanon. The 35-year-old died at Rafik Hariri University Hospital in Beirut, where her body is currently preserved.
Her family, residing in Kamrongo village, is appealing to well-wishers and the government for help, as they need Sh1.8 million to transport Christine’s remains back to Kenya. Meanwhile, mortuary charges continue to accumulate at an estimated Sh5,000 per day.
Christine’s elder sister, Caroline Adhiambo, shared that Christine moved abroad in search of better opportunities. Christine’s 18-year-old daughter, Santada Chenogol, described her mother’s death as a profound loss that the family is struggling to process. “My mother was everything to us. She worked tirelessly to provide, and now we lack the means to bring her home,” Santada expressed tearfully.
The family noted that Christine received medical support from Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), which covered her hospital bills, but this assistance did not extend to repatriating her remains, leaving them in a difficult position.
Caroline emphasized the family’s desire to bring Christine back for a proper burial. “Our deepest wish is to lay Christine to rest at home, surrounded by family and friends. Currently, we are grappling with how to make that happen,” she stated.
The family has reached out to the State Department for Diaspora Affairs, requesting urgent government intervention, but they report no response thus far. The financial burden has led them to contemplate cremation and transporting ashes, a solution that contradicts their cultural values.
“We want to give our sister a dignified burial at home, but we feel cornered,” Obuya added.
Christine’s uncle, Tom Odiga, warned that delays could worsen the situation, as costs continue to rise daily. “Every passing day adds to the expenses. Without support, bringing her home may remain unattainable,” he cautioned.
Cousin Barrack Ochieng has called on both national and county governments, as well as well-wishers, to assist the family. Ongoing instability in Lebanon has further complicated their efforts to coordinate with authorities and potential supporters.
Those willing to assist can contribute through Caroline Adhiambo Obuya via M-Pesa at 0721949291. The family remains hopeful that they will bring Christine home and give her the dignified farewell she deserves.
