Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has located Samuel Macharia Wanjohi, who had been missing during a trek of Mt Kenya 18 days ago.
In a statement on Saturday,January 10, 2026, KWS stated that Wanjohi disappeared on December 23, 2025, while trekking along the Sirimon-Shipton route within Mt Kenya National Park.
A missing person report was filed, which prompted KWS to activate its Mountain Search and Rescue Unit immediately.
The deployment comprised experienced rangers and the rescue team, using both aerial surveillance and ground operations to comb through the area.
“Immediately upon receipt of the report on 23rd December 2025, KWS activated its Mountain Search and Rescue Unit, in line with its mandate to ensure visitor safety and emergency response within protected mountain ecosystems. A formal report was also lodged at Chogoria Police Station,” they stated in a statement.
After the 18-day operation, his body was found on January 9, 2026, at Hinde Valley, approximately 4,300 metres above sea level, located off the main trail.
“KWS conveys its conveys its condolences to the family, friends, fellow porters, guides, and the entire Mt Kenya mountain community during this time of grief,” the statement added.
