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The Kenyan diaspora community is mourning the sudden death of Steve Omondi Jaboma, a respected educator, who passed away in Massachusetts, USA, while visiting family. His death adds to a growing number of Kenyans dying abroad, highlighting the challenges faced by those living away from home.
The Kenyan diaspora in the United States is in mourning following the sudden death of Steve Omondi Jaboma, a revered educator and devoted father. Mr. Jaboma passed away on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at Baystate Hospital in Massachusetts, USA, during what was intended to be a family visit. His death is believed to have been caused by an underlying medical condition.
Mr. Jaboma had travelled from Kenya to the U.S. to reunite with relatives, a journey that tragically concluded in heartbreak for his family both in the diaspora and back home.
A veteran teacher, Steve Omondi Jaboma dedicated his life to shaping young minds. His extensive career impacted countless students across various schools in Kenya, where he was celebrated for his professionalism, warmth, and guidance.
Following his passing, an outpouring of condolences has been received from former students, colleagues, and educational institutions where Mr. Omondi taught. Those who knew him remember his commitment to education and his personal resilience, particularly after losing his wife three years prior. Despite his grief, he continued to raise his children with unwavering love and devotion.
Mr. Jaboma's death is among several recent fatalities within the Kenyan diaspora in the United States. This trend has brought into sharp focus the challenges faced by Kenyans living abroad, including the emotional and financial burdens on their families.
Data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) indicates a 13 percent increase in registered deaths of Kenyans outside the country in 2024, rising to 305 from 270 in 2023. The United States recorded the highest number of Kenyan deaths in 2024, with 71 fatalities. The Kenyan government, through the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, has acknowledged these challenges.
Funeral and repatriation arrangements for Mr. Jaboma are currently in progress. His family and friends are seeking support to facilitate the return of his body to Kenya for burial. A memorial service is anticipated to be held in Massachusetts before his interment in his homeland.
While the immediate cause of death is attributed to an underlying medical condition, further details regarding Mr. Jaboma's health history leading up to his passing remain private. The process of repatriating remains from the U.S. to Kenya often involves significant logistical and financial challenges for families, and the full extent of the support needed is yet to be publicly detailed.
The Kenyan diaspora community will continue to rally support for Mr. Jaboma's family to ensure a dignified return and burial in Kenya. This incident, alongside other recent deaths, is likely to intensify discussions within the diaspora and with the Kenyan government regarding enhanced welfare and support mechanisms for Kenyans living abroad.
