How KMTC student died while trying to save drowning colleague

A session that was intended to be an ordinary football practice for a group of Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) students at Mombasa’s Madhubaha beach has since left the college fraternity in mourning.

On Monday, February 24, the students gathered at the beach, which is located close to the institution, for football training in preparation for upcoming inter-college games.

Witnesses recounted that Ali Njoto and Allan Katialem headed to the water to wash off the sand.

Allan, eager to cool off, ventured deeper into the ocean. A few moments later, his frantic cries for help pierced the air as he struggled against the powerful waves.

“Without hesitation, Ali, a close friend and teammate, rushed into the water in an attempt to save him,” one of the students disclosed.

What followed was a harrowing scene as the two fought for their lives against the unrelenting currents.

Unable to help

Their fellow students could only watch in horror, their desperate efforts to rescue them proving futile.

The tragedy was immediately reported to the college administration, which alerted the Kenya Red Cross and the Kenya Coast Guard Service for an emergency response.

The Kenya Coast Guard Service confirmed the retrieval of Ali's body on the same day, which was handed over to the police.

Search efforts for Allan stretched into the following day before his body was finally recovered.

KMTC Chief Executive Officer Dr Kelly Oluoch expressed the institution’s sorrow.

“We are devastated by the untimely demise of our students, Ali Njoto and Allan Katialem. This is a heartbreaking moment for our institution, especially as they were preparing for the upcoming inter-college games,” he stated.

Dr Oluoch added that psycho-social support had been deployed for students, particularly the football team, who had last trained with the deceased.

“We have engaged professional counselors to support the affected students as they process this tragic loss,” he said.

Ali was laid to rest on Tuesday at his family home in Lungalunga, Kwale County as plans were underway to transport Allan’s body to Kitale for his final burial in West Pokot.

Ali, a first-year student pursuing Emergency Medical Technology, was known by the college fraternity for his determination and dedication.

“Our thoughts and prayers remain with their families. These young men were the pride of their communities, and their tragic passing has left a void that can never be filled,” Dr Oluoch added.

Mombasa Chief Fire Officer Ibrahim Basafar confirmed the retrieval of the bodies.

KMTC Mombasa Campus Principal Jacinta Mukonzo described the tragedy as an unimaginable loss.

“We are mourning the tragic deaths of two brilliant students, very energetic and promising sportsmen,” she said, her voice laden with sorrow. Even during breaks, he remained on campus to prepare for his exams,” Ms Mukonzo said.

Allan, a second-year student in Medical Imaging Sciences, was described as a pillar of the campus football team.

“He was always the first on the pitch, training as early as 6am to ensure his team was ready,” Ms Mukonzo added.

Fellow students and lecturers remain inconsolable, describing the two as exemplary individuals whose potential was tragically cut short.

bwachira@ke.nationmedia.com