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May 30, 2024

The body of Kenyan climber Joshua Cheruiyot Kirui, who tragically died on Mt. Everest last week, will remain on the mountain, his family has announced. Kirui, 40, was attempting the formidable feat of climbing Everest without supplementary oxygen when he fell into a crevasse just 48 meters below the 8,849-meter peak. His Nepali guide, Nawang Sherpa, who fell with him, is still missing.

The decision to Leave Kirui’s Body

After careful consideration, Kirui’s family decided that retrieving his body from such a high altitude would be too dangerous for rescuers. The family highlighted the significant risks involved in the retrieval efforts, stating, “We do not want to endanger rescuers’ lives.” They also acknowledged the financial burden, as the cost of retrieval is approximately $190,000.

“Joshua loved the mountains, and they loved him. We find comfort knowing he is resting in his happy place,” the family said in a statement. Memorial services will be held in Nairobi and his home village of Chepterit in the Rift Valley.

*PRESS STATEMENT ON JOSHUA CHERUIYOT KIRUI’S REPATRIATION FROM MT. EVEREST*

Following the death of Joshua Cheruiyot Kirui on Mt. Everest on May 22, 2024, the family has made the difficult decision to let his body remain on Mt. Everest.

This decision was made after extensive… pic.twitter.com/hT2fPJivY3

— Mountain Stories (@j_muhia) May 29, 2024

The Challenges of Climbing Everest

Climbing Everest is an extremely perilous endeavour, even for the most experienced climbers. Kirui aimed to be the first African to reach the summit without extra oxygen. Before his climb, he expressed confidence in his preparation and emergency plans in an interview with the BBC. Despite these measures, he encountered fatal challenges on the ascent.

Kirui’s journey was closely followed in Kenya, with fellow climbers and supporters providing updates online. His ambition and courage had inspired many, making his loss deeply felt across the climbing community and his homeland.

Everest’s Grim Statistics

This season, which typically spans April and May, has claimed the lives of four climbers, underscoring the inherent dangers of scaling the world’s highest peak. The climbing season is set to end in a few days, bringing a close to another challenging year on Everest.

Nearly 200 of the 330 climbers who have died on Everest remain on the mountain, their bodies left behind due to the high risks and costs associated with retrieval. Kirui now joins this solemn number, his legacy commemorated by those who knew and admired him.

Remembering Joshua Kirui

Kirui, a banker by profession, was a passionate climber dedicated to pushing the limits of human endurance. His attempt to summit Everest without supplementary oxygen was a testament to his determination and adventurous spirit.

His family and friends will remember him not only for his daring pursuits but also for his love of the mountains. As they mourn his loss, they take solace in knowing that he rests in a place he cherished deeply.

Memorial services will be a time for reflection and celebration of Kirui’s life and achievements, honouring a man who dared to dream and reach for the highest heights.