Retired Kenyan military and commercial pilot Col. (Rtd) James Gitahi Nguyo, renowned for flying former Presidents Mwai Kibaki and Daniel arap Moi, has died.
Gitahi passed away in a tragic road accident at Kyumvi Junction on Mombasa Highway after his vehicle collided head-on with an oncoming lorry and burst into flames.
The accident occurred on Wednesday, March 5, at 5pm, reducing his car to ashes and leaving his body burned beyond recognition. The retired pilot was alone in the vehicle at the time of the accident.
Gitahi was the husband of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM)’s nominated Senator Betty Batuli Montet.
According to witness accounts, the retired military pilot was overtaking another lorry when he misjudged the distance of an approaching truck. The impact sent his vehicle off the road, where it caught fire, trapping him inside.
Unfortunately, emergency responders were unable to reach him on time, leading to his death.
Although retired as a military pilot, Gitahi continued his career as a commercial pilot at Wilson Airport.
In his capacity as a military pilot, Gitahi had the opportunity to fly former President Moi. He flew the former president for nearly two decades and was described as his trusted and designated pilot.
Gitahi also flew former President Kibaki while serving in the military. The Kenya Air Force pilot flew the two former presidents from 1992 to 2010 when he retired.
Gitahi took over in 1992 from retired Colonel Hussein Farrah, who had served under Moi’s administration since 1984.
In his 46-year-long career, Gitahi described the two presidents as opposites. According to the pilot, Moi was more outgoing and outspoken compared to his successor Kibaki, a man of few words.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi has mourned Ngunyo as a distinguished pilot who helped redefine air transport in Kenya.
“I’m deeply saddened to learn of the untimely demise of Col (Rtd) James Gitahi Nguyo, the beloved husband of Senator Betty Montent, in a road accident at the Machakos Junction on Mombasa Road last evening. Col Nguyo, a retired army man, was a distinguished pilot who flew Presidents Daniel arap Moi and Mwai Kibaki and other leading personalities during his career.
“As a commercial pilot, Col Gitahi has helped redefine air transport in our country, ensuring safe skies through mentorship of upcoming pilots. I pass my sincere condolences to Senator Montet and her family for this immense loss and pray for God’s grace and comfort upon them at this most painful and difficult moment. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Kingi stated.
