LEICESTER, UK — April 6, 2026 — The Kenyan diaspora community in the United Kingdom is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Esther Sitienei, a dedicated and compassionate nurse. She passed away on April 4, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Esther, who served at the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, leaves behind a legacy of unwavering commitment to patient care and a life that touched many across continents.
A Life of Service and Compassion
Esther Sitienei began her nursing journey in Kenya, where she trained and worked at a hospital in Nairobi. Driven by a passion to serve and grow professionally, she later relocated to the United Kingdom in 2001.
Upon her arrival, she joined the Intensive Therapy Unit (ITU) at the University Hospitals of Leicester. There, she dedicated over two decades of service. Colleagues remember her as a skilled, kind-hearted, and dependable nurse. She consistently went above and beyond for her patients.
Her long-standing career in critical care made her an integral part of the hospital community, where she built lasting relationships with both staff and patients.
Roots in Kenya and Family Legacy
Originally from Kitale, Esther’s roots remained deeply connected to her homeland. Her family later settled in Cheploskei, along the Nakuru–Eldoret Highway. It was a place she cherished and considered home.
Despite living abroad for many years, Esther maintained strong ties with her family and the Kenyan community. She embodied the spirit of the diaspora — balancing life overseas while staying grounded in her heritage.
Diaspora Community Rallies for Repatriation
In accordance with her final wishes, Esther will be laid to rest in Kenya. Friends, colleagues, and members of the UK-Kenyan diaspora community have come together to honor her wish by organizing repatriation efforts.
The process of transporting her remains back home involves significant logistical and financial costs. As a result, well-wishers are appealing for financial contributions to support the repatriation and funeral arrangements.
Community leaders describe the response so far as overwhelmingly supportive, reflecting the profound impact Esther had on those around her.
A Lasting Legacy
Esther Sitienei’s life stands as a powerful testament to dedication, resilience, and compassion. Her journey from Kenya to the UK and her decades-long service in healthcare highlight the critical role Kenyan professionals continue to play in global health systems.
Her passing is not only a loss to her family but also to the wider diaspora and healthcare community.
As tributes continue to pour in, Esther is remembered as a selfless caregiver, a loving family member, and a proud Kenyan. Her legacy will live on in the lives she touched.
How to Support
Members of the public wishing to support the repatriation efforts are encouraged to connect with family representatives. They may also contact diaspora organizers coordinating the fundraising initiative.
