With deep sadness, the Kenyan community in the United Kingdom and in Kenya is mourning the death of Peninah “Penny” Muiruri, a Kenyan nurse who was living and working in Horsham, Sussex, UK.
Peninah was found dead in her residence after her family in Kenya raised alarm when they lost contact with her. A welfare check was requested through authorities, and Sussex Police later confirmed that her body had been discovered.
The matter is currently under investigation, and a postmortem examination has been scheduled to establish the cause of death.
Family in Kenya Raised the Alarm
According to information shared by relatives and members of the Kenyan diaspora, Peninah had no immediate family living in the UK and was reportedly not in regular contact with other Kenyans in the area.
When communication with her suddenly stopped, her family in Kenya became concerned and requested authorities in the UK to conduct a welfare check. It was during this check that police made the tragic discovery.
“She had no relatives in the UK and was not interacting with anyone from Kenya. Her body is currently in the UK with no one to formally claim it,” a family representative said.
Sussex Police Confirm Investigation Ongoing
Sussex Police have confirmed that the death is under investigation and that a postmortem will be carried out to determine the cause.
At this stage, authorities have not released further details regarding the circumstances of her death, and no foul play has been officially confirmed or ruled out.
Appeal for Support and Information
The family is appealing to:
- Members of the Kenyan community in the UK who may have known Peninah,
- Anyone who had contact with her in recent weeks,
- And well-wishers willing to help trace information, support the family, or assist with funeral and repatriation arrangements.
Her death has deeply saddened many Kenyans abroad, highlighting once again the emotional and social isolation many migrants face while living far from home.
Who Was Peninah “Penny” Muiruri?
Peninah Muiruri was a Kenyan-trained nurse who moved to the UK to pursue a better life and serve in the healthcare sector. Friends describe her as kind, hardworking, private, and dedicated to her profession.
Her sudden death has shocked those who have now come to learn about her story.
Conclusion
The passing of Peninah Muiruri is a heartbreaking reminder of the vulnerability of migrant workers living alone abroad. As investigations continue, her family and the wider Kenyan community await answers, closure, and dignity for her final journey home.
May her soul rest in eternal peace.
