Shock As UON Student Found Dead at Campus Swimming Pool

In a tragic incident that has left the University of Nairobi community reeling, a student was discovered deceased at the university’s main campus swimming pool early Tuesday morning.

The body of a third-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery student was found in the early hours of April 22, 2025, according to a statement released by the University of Nairobi Student Association (UNSA).

While authorities are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the death, it’s suspected that Dennis Kamunya died by suicide as he posted farewell notes on his social media pages.

Prior to the incident, the student had shared reflective thoughts on social media that offered a glimpse into their state of mind.

In one post, they wrote about valuing the opportunity to learn about evolution, stating: “The greatest thing about life was that I got to learn about evolution. I belong to one of the few generations that got to know how and possibly why we are here.”

In another message, they acknowledged personal struggles but maintained perspective: “Even though anxiety/depression/addiction troubled me, I still count myself lucky,” the student posted on X.

“The student was a bright and promising individual, known for dedication to studies, warmth, and quiet strength. This passing is a painful loss not only to classmates and lecturers but also to the entire Health Science community,” read part of the UNSA statement.

University officials confirmed that students are typically only permitted to use the campus swimming facility during afternoon hours, raising questions about access to the pool during early morning hours.

University of Nairobi main campus.

This marks the second such tragedy at the institution in recent months.

On September 4, a fifth-year medical student at the university was also found deceased in what police described as a suspected suicide.

According to police reports, that student’s body was discovered with the head covered with nylon paper at the main hall residence, believed to have died on the evening of September 2.

The recent incident has prompted UNSA to call for increased attention to mental health support on campus. “As a community of future healthcare providers, we must continue to normalize open conversations about mental well-being, checking in on each other, and seeking help when we need it. No one should have to struggle in silence,” stated UNSA’s Joseph Kariuki Njogu.

Police have launched an investigation into the incident and indicated that the cause of death will be officially determined following a postmortem examination.

The university has announced that counseling services are being made available to students and staff affected by this loss.

Mental health experts emphasize the importance of seeking help during difficult times and note that support is available through campus resources and national crisis helplines.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​