A Kenyan man living in the United Kingdom has been found dead. According to media reports, the deceased has been identified as Kepha Otundo, who was living homeless in Reading.
His death has allegedly been linked to the extreme cold during the UK winter.
Otundo was reportedly found dead on January 7, 2026.
While the cause of death has not been officially confirmed, his cousin, Mosoku Geoffrey, suggested that the harsh winter conditions may have contributed.
“Rest, my brother Kepha Otundo Mwambi. The UK winter has claimed you. It shall be well. To the family of my late uncle Ishmael Mwambi and my beloved aunt Callen, and my cousins Mary, Tom, Ammor, Amoz, Robert, and Joyce, and to your widow Sarah and the children, may the Almighty God give you strength during these difficult moments as we come to terms with Otundo’s departure. Go well, bro, until the resurrection morning,” said Mosoku Geoffrey.
Following Otundo’s death, Kenyans sent messages of condolences and reflected on the difficult conditions many face while living abroad.
“Sometimes, I think of things differently. That is why I don’t bother people living abroad to send me money unless they do it willingly. This is quite sad. At times, just take a minute and share with your friends how they live outside of the country. You’d realize many are living worse than slaves. My thoughts and prayers are with the friends and family,” said Christabell Nyamoita.
Nyakio Julian noted that the tragedy highlights the harsh reality faced by vulnerable members of society in the UK, especially during extreme weather conditions.
“This tragic death brings to light the harsh reality faced by the vulnerable members of society in the UK, especially during extreme weather seasons. Rest in peace, Kepha Otundo,” said Nyakio.
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Reports indicate that Otundo was among a group of Kenyan nationals living in tents along Abattoirs Road in Reading.
The temporary settlement was under threat after Reading Borough Council secured a High Court Writ of Possession on July 4, 2025, leaving Otundo and other residents without a home.
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The threatened eviction put residents in a difficult situation, especially during the harsh winter. The camp included Kenyans, Tanzanians, and British citizens, many from Black and other minority communities.
Local advocates cautioned that the residents were facing multiple hardships, including unresolved immigration matters, mental health struggles, and limited access to public support due to the UK’s No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) rules.
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Collage photo of Kepha Otundo. PHOTO/The Diaspora Times