Seven people have died following a tragic helicopter accident at Lolokwe Mountain in Samburu County on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, Kenya’s tourism bodies have confirmed.
In a joint statement released Thursday, the Kenya Tourism Board and the Kenya Tourism Federation said the helicopter, operated by Lady Lori Helicopters, was carrying visitors traveling within Kenya when it crashed.
“The tourism fraternity in Kenya is deeply saddened by the tragic helicopter accident… tragically resulting in the loss of seven lives,” the statement read.
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The two bodies extended their “deepest condolences to the families, friends and loved ones” of the victims, and said their thoughts are also with emergency response teams involved in recovery efforts.
Investigation Underway
According to the statement, the circumstances surrounding the crash “remain under investigation by the relevant authorities.”
The KTB and KTF urged the public, media, and tourism stakeholders “to allow the process to take its course and rely on verified information as further details emerge.”
Kenya Reaffirms Commitment to Tourist Safety
Despite the tragedy, tourism officials moved to reassure both local and international travelers.
“The safety and wellbeing of visitors remain a fundamental priority for Kenya’s tourism industry,” the statement said, noting that the country’s tourism sector is supported by “regulatory frameworks, professional operators and a broad network of public and private sector stakeholders committed to responsible and safe tourism.”
The statement concluded: “Kenya remains open and continues to welcome visitors from across the world… to uphold confidence in Kenya as a safe, welcoming and responsible destination.”
