A somber mood has engulfed Nadhir Integrated Academy in Nairobi following the sudden death of one of its teachers during a school outing.
James Mathenge, a dedicated educator at the school, tragically collapsed and died while playing soccer with pupils at the Sir Ali Muslim Academy playground in Pangani on the afternoon of April 16, 2025.
According to witnesses, the incident occurred around 3:00 PM, shortly after Mathenge began experiencing breathing difficulties during the friendly match.
“He looked like he was struggling to catch his breath, then suddenly collapsed,” one witness told the police.
He was rushed to a nearby clinic but was pronounced dead on arrival.
Detectives from Pangani Police Station responded to the scene and recorded statements from witnesses. The teacher’s body was later moved to the mortuary as investigations continue.
An autopsy is expected to determine the exact cause of death.
Police have confirmed that the game was immediately halted following the incident, and they are treating the matter with urgency.
“This is a tragic loss. We are carrying out a full investigation to understand what happened,” said an officer familiar with the case.
Mathenge was described by colleagues as a passionate teacher who had a strong bond with his students. His sudden passing has shocked the school community and sparked an outpouring of grief.
