LAKEWOOD, WASHINGTON — The Kenyan diaspora community in the United States is mourning the death of Margaret Wanjiku Njenga, a Kenyan woman originally from Nakuru County. She was found dead in her apartment in Lakewood, Washington, on Friday, March 6, 2026.
Authorities confirmed that Wanjiku was discovered deceased in her residence, but as of March 10, 2026, the Pierce County Coroner’s Office has not yet determined the official cause of death. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding her passing are ongoing.
Family in Kenya Unable to Travel
According to friends and members of the Kenyan community in Washington State, Margaret Wanjiku Njenga’s children currently live in Kenya. They are facing significant financial challenges that prevent them from traveling to the United States. In addition, these challenges keep them from covering the expenses required to repatriate their mother’s body.
The family has expressed a strong wish for their mother’s body to be returned to Kenya for burial. This is a tradition deeply valued in many Kenyan families both at home and abroad.
However, funeral arrangements, repatriation costs, and travel expenses can be extremely expensive. Often, these costs exceed several thousands of dollars for diaspora families.
Diaspora Community Mobilizes Support
Friends, well-wishers, and members of the Kenyan diaspora community in Washington State and across the United States have begun mobilizing financial support. Their goal is to help the grieving family.
Community members say the fundraising effort will help cover:
- Funeral home expenses
- Transportation of the body to Kenya
- Burial arrangements
- Support for the family during the difficult period
Those wishing to support the family can send donations through the following channels:
Zelle:
Mary Kimani – 206-304-9101
Cash App:
$AnneKibicho – 404-642-5993
Organizers have urged the Kenyan diaspora and friends of the family to contribute whatever they can to help fulfill the family’s wish of giving Margaret Wanjiku Njenga a dignified final journey back to Kenya.
A Growing Concern for Diaspora Families
Cases involving unexpected deaths of Kenyans abroad often place a heavy financial burden on families. Repatriation of remains from the United States to Kenya can cost between $10,000 and $20,000. This cost depends on logistics and funeral arrangements.
As a result, diaspora communities frequently come together through community fundraisers, church networks, and online contributions to support bereaved families.
Margaret Wanjiku Njenga’s passing has once again highlighted the importance of community solidarity among Kenyans living abroad. This is especially true during times of tragedy.
Friends say they hope the community will stand with the family to ensure she receives a respectful burial in her homeland.
