Diaspora Affairs Offers Psychosocial Support to Family of Kenyan Woman Who Died in Saudi Arabia

The State Department for Diaspora Affairs has provided psychosocial support to the family of Teresia Wawira Njagi, a Kenyan woman who died while working in Saudi Arabia.

Njagi’s remains arrived in Kenya on 9 October after being held in Saudi Arabia as arrangements for their repatriation were completed. Her return allowed her family in Kigwambiti Village, Mbeere North Constituency, Embu County, to proceed with burial preparations after months of uncertainty.

Community leaders, including Hon. Leo Wa Mūthende, joined the family in receiving her remains. The repatriation brought an end to a difficult waiting period for relatives who had been seeking to bring her home for burial.

In September, officials from the State Department for Diaspora Affairs travelled to Kigwambiti Village to attend Njagi’s funeral. The delegation was led by Peter Burugu, head of the department’s Counselling and Wellness Unit, who provided psychosocial support to relatives as they dealt with their loss.

The officials also used the visit to educate residents about safe and legal routes to overseas employment. They urged prospective migrant workers to verify recruitment agencies and follow established procedures when seeking jobs abroad.

The advice comes as Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries continue to attract Kenyans seeking better-paying employment opportunities.