Former Presidential Pilot Col. (Rtd) James Gitahi Nguyo Dies in Tragic Road Accident

Retired Kenyan military and commercial pilot, Colonel (Rtd) James Gitahi Nguyo, who was widely recognized for flying former Presidents Daniel arap Moi and Mwai Kibaki, has died in a horrific road accident.

Gitahi lost his life on Wednesday, March 5, following a fatal crash at Kyumvi Junction along Mombasa Highway. His vehicle collided head-on with an oncoming lorry before bursting into flames.

The accident happened at around 5 PM, reducing his car to ashes and leaving his body completely burned beyond recognition. Tragically, he was the only occupant of the vehicle at the time.

Witnesses at the scene reported that the retired military pilot was attempting to overtake another lorry when he misjudged the speed and distance of an approaching truck.

The impact was severe, sending his car off the road before it caught fire, trapping him inside. Sadly, emergency responders were unable to save him in time.

Gitahi was married to Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) nominated Senator Betty Batuli Montet. His death has left family, friends, and colleagues in deep mourning.

Despite retiring from military service, Gitahi continued his aviation career as a commercial pilot at Wilson Airport, where he was highly respected in the industry.

During his time in the military, he had the distinguished role of flying President Moi for nearly two decades, earning the trust and confidence of the late head of state.

He also flew President Mwai Kibaki while still serving in the military. From 1992 until his retirement in 2010, Gitahi was responsible for transporting the two former presidents on official duties.

He took over the role in 1992 from retired Colonel Hussein Farrah, who had flown Moi since 1984.

Reflecting on his career, Gitahi once described the two presidents as having vastly different personalities. He noted that Moi was charismatic, outgoing, and talkative, while Kibaki was reserved and a man of few words.

The news of his passing has drawn messages of condolence from national leaders. Senate Speaker Amason Kingi expressed his grief and sent his sympathies to Gitahi’s family, especially to Senator Montet.

“Col. Nguyo, a retired military officer, was a remarkable pilot who flew Presidents Daniel arap Moi and Mwai Kibaki, along with other prominent figures throughout his career.

As a commercial pilot, Col. Gitahi played a key role in shaping Kenya’s aviation sector by mentoring aspiring pilots and ensuring safer skies,” Speaker Kingi stated.

Gitahi’s passing marks the loss of a highly skilled and respected figure in Kenya’s aviation industry, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and excellence in both military and commercial aviation.

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