Dark moments as Kisii man “Maigama” dies suddenly in Minnesota — family, friends demand answers

The Kenyan diaspora and communities back home in Kisii County were plunged into grief this week after the sudden death of Johnson Mose, popularly known as Maigama, a well-known resident of Crystal, Minnesota. The 42-year-old father of two — who until recently had been celebrated for completing a long-dreamed home in Kisii — died following what relatives describe as an accident on Sunday, November 9, 2025.

Relatives in Nyamecheo, Ibeno (Nyaribari Chache) and friends in the U.S. said the news spread rapidly on social media, where condolence messages and tributes poured in from both sides of the Atlantic. Videos and posts shared by acquaintances describe Mose as a disciplined, humble man who earned respect as a fitness coach and community supporter while working in the Twin Cities area.

A life of hard work, a dream home not yet enjoyed

Sources reporting on the tragedy say Mose had spent years working in the United States to support his immediate family and extended relatives back in Kisii. In recent months he had completed construction of a modern multi-storey house in his home village — a milestone he had long pursued and which he proudly showcased online. Friends expressed the heartbreak that he did not live long enough to enjoy the house with his family.

TikTok influencer Geoffrey (known on social media as Geoffrey/Chofrii) posted a tribute that captured the shock felt by many Kenyans online, recalling personal conversations with Mose and reflecting on the string of premature deaths affecting people within their circle on the platform. In his post Geoffrey reflected on Mose’s character and on the fragility of life, sentiments that were echoed in multiple reactions across Facebook and Instagram.

Circumstances still unclear — family seeks privacy as investigations proceed

Details about the exact circumstances of the accident have not been made public by authorities at the time of reporting. Several community posts and local diaspora pages referenced an accidental death in Minnesota but offered no official incident report or coroner’s statement. Family members have asked for privacy while they make arrangements and await formal confirmation from U.S. authorities. Reporters reached out to community representatives but no official police statement has yet been published in Kenyan media outlets.

Community leaders in Kisii and members of the diaspora have urged anyone with further information to support the family by sharing verified details rather than speculation on social media. Several posts called for well-wishing and financial or logistical help to assist with repatriation or funeral arrangements should the family request it.

Remembering “Maigama”

Those who knew Johnson “Maigama” Mose remembered him as a devoted husband and a hands-on father whose calm, disciplined nature made him a popular figure among clients and friends. He was described repeatedly as someone who quietly invested his earnings into improving life for relatives back home — a story familiar to many in Kenya’s diaspora who send remittances and build houses for their families.

What comes next

At the time of filing, the family has not released a full obituary with burial arrangements. Local community groups and friends have asked well-wishers to await formal announcements from next-of-kin and to channel messages of support through verified family pages or community representatives. Journalists are monitoring for an official statement from Minnesota authorities or further information from the family.

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