By Peter Ochieng
The family of Kenyan mountaineer, Joshua Cheruiyot Kirui has made the hard decision to leave his body on Mt Everest.
Kirui died on May 22, about a kilometre to the summit of the mountain, considered the tallest in the world.
He had embarked on a journey to become the first African to reach top of Mt Everest, without supplementary oxygen.
Considering how risky and expensive it would be to retrieve the body from the mountain and return it home for burial, the family has settled on ‘leaving him to rest in peace,’ far away from his Kenyan roots.
“Cheruiyot had a profound love for the mountains, and they loved him in return. We find solace in knowing he rests in his happy place,” the family said in a statement.
Before embarking on the daring move to climb Mt Everest, he had reached the summit of Mt Kenya and Mt Kilimanjaro on numerous occasions.
Reportedly, it would cost about Sh13 million to remove his body from Mt Everest and transport it back home.
“Cheruiyot fell into a crevasse 48 meters from the summit (8,848 meters) and retrieving his body from that high up would be risky for the rescue team, the family does not wish to endanger any life,” the family said.
“We appreciate the love and condolence messages received from relatives, friends and the outdoor community. We specifically acknowledge the massive support we have received from the (bank) where Joshua worked. We truly know that our son was loved,” the family added.
Kurui had gone missing days before his body was discovered. He was reported missing alongside his guide, Nepali citizen Nawang Sherpa.
His whereabouts are still unknown.
“We extend our gratitude to seven summit treks for their support, information, and guidance during this time. We also pray for the family of Nawang Sherpa, Cheruiyot’s Sherpa during this expedition, who is yet to be found. May they find peace.”
Reports indicate that over 150 bodies of people who died while trying to summit Everest remain on the mountain, which lies on the border of China and Nepal, in Asia.