Yei FM Radio Presenter Dies in Luri Plane Crash – Family Confirms

Yei FM Radio Presenter Dies in Luri Plane Crash – Family Confirms

Grief has engulfed the media fraternity in South Sudan following the confirmation that young journalist Viviana Nandege, a radio presenter at Access Radio (Yei FM), was among the 14 people who lost their lives in a tragic plane crash near Luri, just outside Juba.

Nandege’s death was confirmed by her family on Monday, April 27, bringing a deeply personal dimension to a disaster that has shaken both South Sudan and the wider East African region. The crash, which involved a Cessna 208 Caravan aircraft operated by CityLink Aviation Ltd, occurred approximately 20 kilometres southwest of Juba shortly after takeoff.

According to the South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority (SSCAA), the aircraft departed Yei en route to Juba International Airport at around 9:15 a.m. but lost communication less than 30 minutes later. On board were 13 passengers and one pilot. Authorities confirmed that there were no survivors.

“We have lost a bright, courageous voice. Viviana was more than a journalist—she was a beacon of hope for many young people,” a family representative said, describing the profound loss felt by those who knew her personally and professionally.

Nandege was widely recognised for her work at Access Radio, a community-focused station based in Yei that plays a critical role in delivering information, promoting dialogue, and fostering peace in a region that has faced years of instability. Colleagues described her as passionate, dedicated, and deeply committed to telling stories that matter.

“Her voice carried truth, empathy, and strength. She connected with listeners in a way that made people feel heard and understood,” one of her colleagues noted, as tributes continued to pour in across social media and local media platforms.

The crash also claimed the lives of two Kenyan nationals, further underscoring the regional impact of the tragedy. While authorities have yet to release a full list of victims, investigations are underway to determine the cause of the crash.

In a statement, the SSCAA confirmed the details of the incident, noting that the aircraft, registration 5Y-NOK, went down under circumstances that remain unclear. “The aircraft lost contact with air traffic control shortly before the crash. Sadly, all 14 individuals on board perished,” the authority stated.

Aviation experts say the Cessna 208 Caravan is generally considered a reliable aircraft commonly used for short regional flights, particularly in remote areas. However, challenging weather conditions, mechanical issues, or operational factors can still pose risks, especially in regions with limited aviation infrastructure.

South Sudan’s aviation sector has faced scrutiny in recent years, with safety concerns often raised due to aging fleets and regulatory challenges. This latest incident is expected to renew calls for stricter oversight and improved safety standards.

Meanwhile, media organisations and civil society groups have called for a thorough and transparent investigation into the crash, emphasising the need for accountability and preventive measures.

“We urge authorities to conduct a comprehensive inquiry so that such tragedies can be avoided in the future,” a regional media watchdog said, highlighting the importance of safeguarding lives in the aviation sector.

For many, however, the focus remains on mourning the lives lost, particularly that of Nandege, whose career was seen as a rising force in South Sudanese journalism. Her work at Access Radio had earned her a loyal audience and respect among peers, with many viewing her as part of a new generation of journalists shaping the country’s narrative.

As families begin to come to terms with the devastating loss, vigils and tributes are being organised in Yei and Juba to honour the victims.

“Viviana’s legacy will live on through the stories she told and the lives she touched,” her family said, capturing the enduring impact of a young journalist whose voice was silenced far too soon.

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Yei FM Radio Presenter Dies in Luri Plane Crash – Family Confirms