By Eddah Waithaka
AMREF Flying Doctors marked a powerful return to service today with its “Wings of Courage” maiden flight, the first mission since the tragic August 7 crash in Kiambu that claimed six lives, including four crew members.
The flight, transporting a critically injured road accident victim from Zanzibar to Belgium, symbolized both resilience and tribute to the fallen: Captain Muthuka Munuve, Captain Brian Kimani Miaro, Dr. Charles Mugo Njoroge, Nurse Jane Rispah Aluoch Omusula, and two Mwihoko residents.
“This flight carries more than a patient, it carries courage, legacy, and an unbroken commitment to saving lives,” said CEO Steve Gitau, as the organization continues supporting bereaved families through counseling, community outreach, and collaboration with aviation investigators.

While grief remains fresh, AMREF has doubled down on safety and service, ensuring its life-saving missions honor those lost by continuing the work they loved.
Since the tragedy, AMREF has taken decisive action, providing counseling and trauma support to bereaved families and Mwihoko residents, partnering with KCAA for a transparent crash investigation, and reinforcing strict aviation safety protocols proving through today’s flight that even in grief, their lifesaving mission continues unbroken.
The return to skies underscores AMREF’s critical role in Africa’s emergency medical response and the human cost behind airborne lifesaving.