Sonko calls for lasting solution to congestion crisis at Nairobi city mortuary

Sonko said he was shocked by the situation he encountered, where several grieving families were stranded because they could not clear mortuary bills. He was visiting the facility to identify the body of Michael Okoth, a young man from Kinera who died in the Kasarani Stadium stampede during the viewing of the late Raila Odinga’s body.

“Now I know why politicians avoid going to such places,” Sonko said. “I was disturbed by the number of families stuck there because of unpaid bills. A permanent solution is needed to address these issues.”

He announced that he would pay Okoth’s mortuary fees and cater for his burial in Alego Usonga. During the visit, he also cleared several other pending bills for families who had been unable to release the bodies of their relatives.

Sonko said his foundation, through the Sonko Rescue Team, handles more than 20 bereavement cases weekly, including paying mortuary and funeral costs for needy families.

“I remember during my time as county boss, I used to waive morgue fees in similar cases to allow families to bury their loved ones. That helped reduce congestion at the facility,” he added.

The Nairobi City Mortuary, which was renamed to Nairobi Funeral Home, has long struggled with overcrowding. Despite a capacity of 184 bodies, the facility has in recent years held more than 600 at a time.

In August 2024, the Nairobi County Government announced plans to dispose of 120 unclaimed bodies within seven days, triggering public criticism from human rights groups who termed the move inhumane.

The continued congestion has raised questions about the city’s capacity to manage postmortem services and ensure dignity for the deceased and their families. Sonko’s remarks have reignited debate over the need for better facilities, improved management, and social support systems for vulnerable families.