The family of Sheila Chebii has penned a glowing tribute to their daughter who died in Sydney, Australia, just weeks after relocating in pursuit of higher education and a better life.
In an obituary published on June 18, the family described Sheila as a bright, hardworking, and ambitious individual whose life was cut short at the peak of her dreams.
“It is with profound sorrow and humble acceptance of God’s will that we announce the untimely passing of Sheila Jepkorir Chebii… Sheila was a bright, hardworking, and ambitious young woman who touched many lives through her kindness, humility, and determination,” read part of the obituary.
According to a statement from the family, Sheila Chebii died on May 17, 2026, in Sydney.
They further added that Sheila had recently been admitted to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program in Accounting, marking a major milestone in her academic journey.
“She had recently been admitted to pursue a Master of Business Administration at the Canterbury Institute of Management in Sydney, Australia,” read part of the statement.
Her family remembers her as a loving daughter, sister, and friend whose death has left “an immeasurable void in the lives of all who knew and loved her.”
Sheila Chebii’s Death
The family stated that the circumstances surrounding the death of their daughter were unclear and called upon the government to investigate the claims that Chebii’s death was accidental.
Speaking during an interview, Chebii’s father demanded that if the death was accidental, the hotel should grant them access to the CCTV footage during the incident.
“What exactly happened to my daughter? How does a young girl die suddenly at her workplace without a clear explanation? If this was truly an accident, then we want transparency. We want to see CCTV footage from the hotel. We want investigators to explain her final moments. Such a facility must have proper safety systems and surveillance cameras,” Mr. Chebii, Sheila’s father, stated after learning about the death of her daughter.
Sheila Chebii’s father went on to clarify that the family was informed that an autopsy on Sheila’s body could only be conducted after completion of a preliminary investigation by the Australian police.
Members of the family, along with friends and some members of the public, have called on the Kenyan government and the Kenyan embassy in Australia to provide diplomatic support to secure justice for Sheila.
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MFA and Kenyan Embassy Statement on Sheila’s Death
Kenya’s High Commission in Canberra said that it is actively engaged in the matter and working with Australian authorities to establish the facts.
In a press statement on May 25, 2026, the High Commission expressed deep sorrow over Sheila’s death and extended condolences to her family.
“The Kenya High Commission in Canberra is deeply saddened by the death of Ms. Sheila Chebii… The Mission is actively engaged with the relevant Australian authorities with a view to obtaining information and updates concerning the matter,” the statement read.
The embassy encouraged the public to avoid speculation as investigations were underway and further reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Kenyan nationals abroad, promising to provide updates once verified information becomes available.
Officials from Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, led by Ms. Njogu, Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs, met with Chebii’s family, led by William Kisang, Senator for Elgeyo Marakwet.
They offered their condolences and assured the family and the public of the government’s commitment to assisting the family and ensuring that the necessary processes are completed.
Also read: Kenya Confirms Death of Sheila Chebii in Australia, Gives Way Forward After Burning Questions
Community Mourning and Growing Concern
As Kenya continues to mourn Sheila Chebii, many remember her as a determined and hopeful young woman whose dream of a brighter future was tragically cut short.
She will be laid to rest in Elgeyo Marakwet County, where family and friends are preparing to bid her a final farewell.
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PHOTO | Kenya Diaspora | FB
