Tears flowed freely and emotions ran high at Moi International Airport, Mombasa, as the body of Karisa Laini Kalama finally touched home soil.

The quiet of grief wrapped his family and friends, each tear carrying the weight of a journey that began in hope and ended in heartbreak. For the young man from Ziwa la Ng’ombe in Nyali Constituency, the long road back home was a painful reminder of dreams cut short far away from home.

Kalama, who died last month in Dubai, had been working as a delivery rider, hustling day and night in pursuit of a better life.  His life was tragically cut short in a road accident while on duty, leaving his family thousands of miles away grappling with shock, sorrow, and uncertainty. In the days that followed his death, grief was compounded by the daunting task of bringing him back home.

He had secured the job in Dubai through the government’s Kazi Majuu program, an initiative meant to open up overseas employment opportunities for Kenyan youth. His family said he had been hopeful that the opportunity would transform their lives, making his sudden death even more painful as it came while he was pursuing a future promised through the program.

Amid the pain, a light of compassion emerged. Said Abdallah 'Saido' stepped in to help facilitate the repatriation of Kalama’s body, easing a burden no family should bear alone.

As the casket arrived in Mombasa, it was not just a return of remains, but a final homecoming one marked by tears, prayers, and gratitude for a kindness that ensured Karisa Laini Kalama would rest among his own.

“Our hearts are heavy, but we find comfort knowing he is finally home. Karisa left seeking a better future for us, and though his journey ended too soon, his love, sacrifice, and memories will live with me forever.” said a family representative.

His death has also reignited conversations about the risks faced by migrant workers seeking opportunities abroad, often in demanding and dangerous jobs. Friends described Kalama as hardworking, humble, and determined to uplift his family, a dream that now lives on only in memory.

“This is a painful loss for the family and for all of us. Karisa left home with hope, just like many young people seeking a better future. I only did what was humanly possible to ensure he returned home with dignity. May God give his family strength during this very difficult time.” said Said Abdallah