Denis Kasyoki: The Mbooni philanthropist killed in a road accident

The late Dennis Kasyoki passed on in a road accident near Greenpark Estate, Athi River.

Itetani village in Mbooni, Makueni County, is wrapped in grief.

Friends and family across the little-known town are mourning the sudden death of Denis Kasyoki Muendo, a businessman fondly known as “Nzou” or “Mweene Kiwanza.”

Kasyoki, 42, lost his life in the early hours of Monday, September 22, in a tragic road accident on the Nairobi- Mombasa highway. A container from a trailer overturned and crashed onto his black Ford Ranger at Primarosa, near Greenpark Estate in Athi River.

According to police reports, the Mercedes Actros trailer was transporting used shoes from Mombasa to Congo when the accident happened shortly after midnight. A traffic officer told The Standard that investigations into the incident were nearly complete.

Witnesses said the Sh3.5 million Ford Ranger had overtaken the trailer and cut in abruptly, sparking a rear-end collision. The trailer driver, who survived, applied emergency brakes, but the container toppled and landed on Kasyoki’s vehicle.

His passenger sustained minor injuries and was rushed to the hospital. But Kasyoki died at the scene.

As dawn broke, news of his death spread like wildfire, sending shockwaves across communities and social media platforms. Tributes poured in, painting the portrait of a man whose quiet generosity touched many lives.

Kasyoki, the Chief Executive Officer of NutriBlends Africa Limited, was not only a respected businessman but also a philanthropist who chose to give quietly. Friends and associates described him as a humble leader who supported education, church projects, and small businesses, often preferring anonymity.

Ngula Mukunuu, a longtime friend and business associate, recalled how Kasyoki’s support transformed his life.

“I have known him for 15 years. He always encouraged me to push further. The businesses I run today are largely because of his support,” Mukunuu said, adding that Kasyoki helped him acquire his first car and expand his ventures.

He also revealed that Kasyoki paid school fees for many children, contributed generously to church fundraisers, and played a key role in building Upaa Primary School in Mbooni. “He never wanted his name glorified, no matter how much he had helped. In fact, he would send me to harambees with his personal contribution but ask to remain anonymous." 

Kasyoki’s philanthropy was often quiet, but its impact was undeniable. To many, he was the friend who came through in times of need; to his village, he was a pillar who believed in uplifting others.

Funeral arrangements are underway, with daily meetings being held at T-Tot Machakos and at his Galas Garden home in Syokimau. His cousin, Harrison Yumbya, confirmed that Kasyoki will be laid to rest on Saturday, October 4, at his home in Itetani, Mbooni.

Several WhatsApp groups have already filled up as relatives and friends coordinate what is expected to be a large funeral, attended by leaders from across the political divide.

The father of two leaves behind not just a grieving family but also a legacy of philanthropy, humility, and leadership.