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The Nairobian

Teso North family seeks help to repatriate daughter's body from Saudi Arabia

Western

By Mary Imenza | Apr 01, 2025

**James Epurati, father to the deceased Phanice Hamayi appealing for help on Sunday, March 31 2025.** [Mary Imenza, Standard]

A distressed family in Koruruma village, Teso North Sub-County, is pleading with the government and well-wishers to help them transport the body of their daughter, Phanice Hamayi, who died under unclear circumstances in Saudi Arabia three months ago.

Phanice had traveled to Saudi Arabia six years ago in search of better opportunities to uplift her family from poverty.

According to her father, James Epurati, she dropped out of school due to financial constraints and sought his permission to work abroad as a house help.

“For five years, I never heard from her until November last year, when she called to say she was unwell. A month later, I received a call from a different number, informing me that my daughter was no more,” said Epurati.

Epurati said that when he sought assistance from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, he was directed to write to the diaspora office for clarification on repatriation procedures.

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However, he said the family was shocked to learn that they would need to raise Sh 500,000 to facilitate the transportation of Phanice’s body back home, an amount they cannot afford.

“I only rely on selling green vegetables from my small farm, which can’t even cover my other children’s school fees,” lamented Epurati.

Despite continuous fundraising efforts led by Bishop Boniface Muyale since December, the family said they have only managed to raise Sh100,000.

Now, they are appealing to leaders, from the President to local MCAs, as well as well-wishers, to help them raise the remaining amount and give Phanice a dignified burial.

“I appeal to all Kenyans and our leaders to kindly support this family. They are in deep distress and desperately need assistance,” urged Bishop Muyale.