A journey that was supposed to end in a joyful family celebration has become a devastating tragedy after a teacher and his wife lost their lives in a road accident along the Eldoret–Nakuru Highway.
Mwalimu Solomon Sikuri Otimo and his wife, Christine Otimo, were reportedly travelling to Nairobi to attend a family wedding when the North Rift Shuttle they were aboard collided head-on with a ballast-laden lorry at Kondoo, Timboroa.
Who was Lugari teacher Solomon Otimo?
According to a condolence message shared by the Lugari Boys Alumni fraternity, Christine died at the scene, while her husband later succumbed to his injuries at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret.
Their deaths have plunged their family, friends and the wider teaching fraternity into mourning, with former students remembering Otimo as a dedicated educator whose influence extended beyond the classroom.
Mwalimu Otimo, popularly known as Bishop by students at St Paul’s Lugari Boys, joined the school in the 1990s and served at the institution for decades before leaving in the 2020s.
He taught Physics, Mathematics, Computer Studies and CRE, and was particularly remembered for pioneering computer lessons at the school.
Former students described him as an approachable, ever-smiling teacher who enjoyed sharing jokes with learners and colleagues.
They remembered him not only for his contribution to education but also for the laughter, humour and memories he left behind.
His humorous personality made him memorable, with one of his familiar remarks being, “I come from Lwandeti City”, a playful reference to his home.
Mwalimu Otimo Was Devoted Christian
Beyond teaching, Solomon was a devoted Christian at Bethel Worship Centre in Lwandeti. His connection to Lugari Boys also extended to his family.
His sister, Madam Sarah Apeli, who currently teaches at Nangili Girls, previously served at the same institution as a Biology teacher.
Meanwhile, Christine was also an educator, serving at St Mukasa School in Chimoi, in the Matete area.
Together, the couple belonged to a teaching fraternity whose contribution to education touched numerous learners.
Otimo Lost First Wife in Road Accident
The circumstances surrounding the couple’s deaths have brought back painful memories for the Otimo family.
In 2019, Solomon lost his first wife, Madam Sylvia, in another road accident at Kaburengu.
Seven years later, another road tragedy claimed his life and that of his second wife, Christine. The couple have left behind children who must now grapple with the devastating loss of both parents.
The Lugari Boys Alumni fraternity expressed particular concern for the children, describing the latest tragedy as an unimaginable loss for the family.
