LONDON, United Kingdom — A Kenyan university student who had been reported missing in the United Kingdom has been found dead, weeks after her disappearance triggered concern among family members, Kenyan diaspora groups, and authorities.
The body of Edna Mmbali, a 31-year-old Kenyan postgraduate student, was discovered in a river in Wraysbury, Berkshire, on March 8 during a search operation led by Thames Valley Police.
Police said volunteers from the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Surrey Lowland Search & Rescue team supported the recovery operation.
Authorities indicated that formal identification had not yet been completed at the time of the announcement, but said investigators strongly believe the body is that of the missing Kenyan student.
Disappearance Triggered Search Effort
Mmbali, who was pursuing a Master’s degree at York St John University, had been living in Wraysbury while studying in the UK.
According to police, she was last seen on February 1, 2026, when she left her residence for a walk.
When communication with her family suddenly stopped in the days that followed, relatives raised the alarm, noting that she had always maintained regular contact with them.
Her disappearance soon gained traction on social media, prompting calls for information from members of the Kenyan diaspora and human rights groups.
Diaspora and Diplomatic Support
Advocacy organisations, including HAKI Africa, joined calls for assistance in tracing the student, while the Kenyan High Commission in the United Kingdom worked with British authorities during the search.
Friends and family described Mmbali as a soft-spoken individual who stood about 5 feet 5 inches tall.
Before news of the discovery emerged, her family had organised a virtual prayer meeting on March 8, hoping for her safe return.
Investigation Ongoing
In a statement, Thames Valley Police said investigations remain underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the student’s death.
“Formal identification of the woman has not yet taken place, but it is believed to be missing woman Edna, aged 31, from Wraysbury, who was reported missing on 1 February 2026. Edna’s next of kin have been informed,” the police statement said.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of death.
Officials say updates will be provided once identification procedures and post-mortem examinations are completed.
