Family only, no seeing of the body! Tight guidelines at Rita Waeni’s subdued funeral

Rita Waeni was laid to rest in Mukimwani village, Makueni County, on February 5, surrounded by strict privacy measures enforced by the family. The funeral, restricted to close relatives, saw a heavy police presence ensuring the family’s wishes for privacy were upheld.

The family, led by Pastor Fred Auma of Ridgeways Baptist Church in Nairobi, conducted a two-hour service that commenced at 8 am. The somber occasion reflected the grief and longing for justice experienced by those close to the deceased university student.

Lillian Mutea, Waeni’s aunt and family spokesperson, conveyed gratitude for the support, contributions, and prayers received from friends, colleagues, and fellow Kenyans. The family found solace in the understanding and respect shown by their extended family.

Rita Waeni, a third-year student at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), met a tragic fate after arranging to meet a man she had been communicating with on Instagram. Her disappearance on January 14 led to a ransom demand of Sh500,000, but tragically, she was found dead in an apartment on TRM Drive, with her head discovered at Kiambaa Dam in Kiambu County.

The burial, delayed for two weeks after the discovery, proceeded after detectives released Waeni’s body to the family on February 2. During the ceremony, mourners remembered the 20-year-old as a source of joy, intelligence, and kindness.

Her parents, Stephen Muendo and Dorcas Mwende, expressed their grief in a statement, highlighting Waeni’s positive impact on others. The parents cherished the memories of their daughter’s joyful presence and dedication to making a positive impact.

Waeni, described as a staunch Christian, was remembered by neighbors as a well-behaved girl and a role model to their daughters. Her untimely death marked the second tragedy for the family in January, following the demise of the family patriarch, Mzee William Mutea. Waeni had played a significant role during her grandfather’s burial in early January, reading the eulogy.