The Kenya Commercial Bank has mourned fallen mountaineer Joshua Cheruiyot Kirui whose body was found on Tuesday cutting short his daring attempt to scale Mt Everest without supplemental oxygen.
In a statement, chief executive officer Paul Russo said the lender is saddened by his untimely demise.
“We extend our words of encouragement and heartfelt prayers of strength and comfort to his family, colleagues, and loved ones as we navigate this difficult period,” Russo said.
Until his death, the CEO said Kirui was a dedicated Senior Relationships Manager – Schemes, Mortgage Division and was a valued KCB staff member.
He said Kirui who he described as a passionate athlete and mountaineer both locally and beyond will be remembered as a dedicated employee.
Everest Today, an organization that tracks mountaineering activities in the Himalayas, broke the news of Kirui’s death Wednesday morning hours after he was reported missing alongside his Nepali guide.
The organization said on X Kirui’s body was found a few meters below the summit point of Mt Everest, some 8,000 meters above sea level.
“He was on a daring mission to reach the summit without supplementary oxygen and was accompanied by a Nepali climber Nawang Sherpa, whose fate is still unknown,” the organisation said.
“His indomitable will and passion for mountaineering will forever be an inspiration. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends during this time of sorrow. Rest in peace, Cheruiyot.”
Russo said Kirui was only the second Kenyan to ever summit Mt Everest, the world’s tallest mountain above sea level.
“His recent triumphs on Mt Manaslu and Mt Everest are a testament to his adventurous spirit and determination,” he said.
The CEO said Kirui’s indomitable will an unwavering passion for mountaineering elevated him to iconic status and even though he’s now no more, he will remain an inspiration to many.