SYDNEY, Australia — The death of a 26-year-old Kenyan student, Sheila Chebii in Australia is under investigation, with authorities yet to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Kenyan High Commission in Canberra confirmed it has launched inquiries into the death of Sheila Chebii, who died in Sydney under unclear circumstances.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Commission said it is working closely with Australian authorities to obtain verified information in accordance with local legal procedures, while urging the public to avoid speculation.
“The Kenya High Commission in Canberra is deeply saddened by the death of Ms Sheila Chebii, a Kenyan national, in Sydney, Australia,” the statement read.
The mission said it is aware of concerns raised by the Kenyan community abroad and is actively engaging relevant authorities to establish the facts.
“The High Commission urges members of the public to refrain from speculation or dissemination of unverified information while the relevant authorities undertake the necessary investigations and coronial processes,” it added.
The Commission reaffirmed its mandate to safeguard the welfare of Kenyan nationals and said it would provide updates once official findings are available.
Preliminary reports indicate that Chebii was working part-time at a five-star hotel in Sydney when the incident occurred, reportedly while she was on duty.
However, authorities have not confirmed the exact cause of death.
Chebii’s family has called for a thorough and transparent investigation, saying critical questions surrounding her death remain unanswered.
Her father, Samuel Kiptanui Chebii, said the family is seeking access to key evidence, including CCTV footage from the hotel.
“What exactly happened to my daughter? How does a young girl die suddenly at her workplace without a clear explanation?” he said.
“If this were truly an accident, then we want transparency. We want to see CCTV footage from the hotel. We want investigators to explain her final moments.”
He added that the family is awaiting clarity on post-mortem procedures, which are expected to follow initial police investigations.
Chebii had travelled to Australia on April 4, 2026, departing through Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to pursue further studies.
She had enrolled in a master’s degree programme in accounting and auditing while working part-time to support her studies.
Originally from Kobil village in Marakwet East, Elgeyo Marakwet County, she was described by relatives as disciplined, focused, and academically gifted.
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She graduated from Kabarak University in 2024 with a Bachelor’s degree in accounting and was also pursuing Certified Public Accountant (CPA(K)) certification.
Her death was confirmed to the family on May 17, just weeks after her arrival in Australia.
The case has sparked concern among Kenyans living abroad, particularly students and young professionals, with calls for enhanced protection and clearer communication in such incidents.
Authorities in Australia are expected to conduct a full investigation, including coronial processes, to determine the cause of death.
