It is with deep sorrow that we share the loss of two young lives from our community—Oscar Macharia, a 10-year-old Grade 5 student at Camp Brethren, and his younger sister Sylvia, aged 5.

On the evening of April 10th, following a period of heavy rains in the area, a tragic accident occurred near their home. The ground had become unstable, and while the children were playing nearby, it suddenly gave way. Despite every effort made, both Oscar and Sylvia did not survive. This heartbreaking news has deeply affected their family and the entire Camp Brethren community.

Oscar was a bright, creative, and joyful boy who had a special love for drawing and the arts. He had a gentle spirit and a grateful heart that left a lasting impression on those around him. Just recently, he had created a piece of artwork for his sponsor as a way of saying thank you—a simple but powerful expression of appreciation that now stands as a treasured memory of his life.

In moments like this, words often fall short. The pain is real, and the loss is deeply felt. Yet even in grief, we are reminded of the importance of community—of standing together, supporting one another, and lifting each other up in prayer.

The Camp Brethren team has been walking closely with the family, offering comfort, presence, and support during this incredibly difficult time. As a wider family, we too have the opportunity to stand with them—not only in sorrow, but in love and faith.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18

We invite you to join us in praying for peace and comfort for the family, for strength in the days ahead, and for God’s presence to surround them in a way that only He can.

Though their lives were short, Oscar and Sylvia were deeply loved. Their memory remains with us, and we hold onto the hope that God is near—even in the midst of pain.