Kind Rongai Makanga and Driver Fired After Saving Sick Passenger
Two matatu crew members from Rongai, Telvin Mburu (the conductor) and Benson Kana (the driver), were unexpectedly fired just days after they helped save a sick passenger’s life.
The woman, identified as Viola Nekesa, had fallen ill while riding in their matatu.
Despite doing the right thing and showing compassion, the two men lost their jobs soon after the incident.
According to Telvin, the crew is usually required to submit KSh 10,000 in daily profits to their employer. On the day they assisted Viola, they actually submitted KSh 13,000, which was more than expected.
However, despite exceeding the target, they were told not to report to work again. Telvin revealed that the matatu owner took the vehicle away and gave them no explanation or warning.
He suspects that perhaps their decision to prioritize Viola’s health and take her to the hospital may have caused delays, which the employer didn’t appreciate.
Telvin said he was shocked and deeply saddened by the decision. He explained that he lives in Kasarani and usually wakes up as early as 3:30am to start his workday at 4:00am.
Losing his job, especially after doing a good deed, has been incredibly painful.
Even worse, Benson is now unwell, suffering from high blood pressure due to the stress of losing his job, which was the only means of supporting his family.
Telvin, who completed his education up to Form Four, said he is currently looking for a new job and would be grateful for any opportunities that may come his way, including ones for Benson.
Why Were They Fired?
On the day of the incident, Viola began experiencing serious breathing problems inside the matatu. Telvin and Benson acted fast.
They gave her first aid and quickly took her to the hospital. They stayed by her side until she was stable.
They even visited her again in the hospital later to check on her recovery. Their actions earned them praise from the public once the story went viral.
People were touched by their selflessness, and Viola’s heartfelt gratitude during a live radio interview left many in tears.
In an interview with Newshub.co.ke, Telvin said they were both confused and hurt when they were dismissed. “We didn’t expect this. We were never warned.
They just told us not to report to work again.
We actually turned in more than the usual daily amount, but still we were fired,” he said. He suspects their decision to help Viola, even if it meant a brief delay in operations, may have been seen as a loss to the matatu owner, despite the KSh 13,000 they had made.
Public Reaction and Support
Many Kenyans online have voiced their support for the two men and have expressed outrage at the way they were treated. Some people suggested fundraising efforts to help Telvin and Benson start something of their own.
One user named Sonny said, “Let’s support Telvin, fellow Kenyans.” Another user, Mercy Arus, shared words of encouragement, saying, “This could be a blessing in disguise.
Maybe it’s time for you to be your own boss, Telvin. Everything happens for a reason.”
Others suggested starting a campaign to help them buy a car and begin a taxi or Uber business. A user commented, “If a million people gave just KSh 2, we could completely change his life.”
Emotional Reunion on Live TV
In a touching moment, Telvin was interviewed on live TV, and Viola surprised him by calling in. She tearfully thanked him for saving her life, saying, “Because of you, my children still have a mother, and my parents still have their daughter. You were so kind. May God bless you and make your light shine around the world.”
Hearing her words, Telvin couldn’t hold back his tears. Even the TV hosts became emotional and struggled not to cry.
Viola also recalled how Telvin reassured her during the emergency, telling her to trust him as they rushed to the hospital. His compassion left a lasting impact on her life.
Telvin’s Reason for Helping Others
Telvin later explained that his drive to help people comes from a painful experience in his past. He lost his mother due to medical negligence, and ever since, he has vowed to never ignore someone in need.
That memory pushed him to stay with Viola and make sure she got proper care.
He added that the other passengers in the matatu were understanding and supportive, showing that there is still kindness in the world. He promised to continue helping others, no matter what.
This story has touched the hearts of many Kenyans, and the outpouring of support shows that good deeds do not go unnoticed.
Telvin and Benson may have lost their jobs, but they have gained the admiration and love of a nation.
Join Our Political Forum official 2025 WhatsApp Channel To Stay Updated On time https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30