A cloud of grief has engulfed family, friends, and the technology community following the tragic discovery of the body of Kenyan technology entrepreneur and CEENET Technologies Chief Executive Officer, Kenneth Toroitich Kiplabat, who had been missing for more than a week.
The young businessman, popularly known as Ken Ceenet, was found dead in Gilgil, Nakuru County, bringing a heartbreaking end to an intensive search that had captured public attention across the country.
In a statement filled with emotion, family members confirmed the devastating news after identifying his body.
“It is with deep sorrow that we confirm, as a family, that the body of our beloved brother, Ken Ceenet, has been identified after being found in Gilgil Town,” the family announced.
The discovery has left many struggling to come to terms with the loss of a man who was widely admired for his passion for technology, innovation, and youth empowerment.
Kiplabat was the founder and CEO of CEENET Technologies, a company that had earned a reputation for offering software solutions, mobile application development, web design, database management systems, CCTV installations, and other digital services. Through his work, he helped businesses embrace technology while also creating opportunities for young people seeking to establish themselves in the digital economy.
His disappearance on May 20 triggered widespread concern among relatives, business associates, clients, and followers on social media. According to those close to him, all communication with the entrepreneur suddenly ceased, raising alarm and prompting an urgent search effort.
As days passed without any trace of him, family members made emotional appeals for information regarding his whereabouts. Friends and supporters shared posters online, while a reward of KSh100,000 was reportedly offered to anyone who could provide credible information leading to his location.
The mystery deepened when his vehicle was discovered abandoned in the Kapkures area of Nakuru County several days after he went missing. The car was later taken to the offices of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations in Nakuru, where detectives began examining potential leads.
Hope that he would be found alive gradually faded as the days went by. Then came the heartbreaking news that many had feared.
On Thursday evening, search efforts came to a tragic conclusion when his body was discovered in Gilgil. Authorities have yet to release a detailed report explaining the circumstances surrounding his death, and investigations are expected to continue.
As the family begins preparations for his burial, they have appealed for prayers, support, and unity during what they describe as one of the most difficult moments they have ever faced.
“We ask for your prayers, support, and unity during this painful moment as we begin preparations to give him a dignified send-off. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” the family said.
Across social media, tributes have continued to pour in from people whose lives were touched by the entrepreneur. Many remembered him as a visionary leader who frequently used his online platforms to mentor young people, connect them with opportunities, and encourage them to pursue their dreams despite challenges.
One mourner wrote, “Ken believed in young people when many others didn’t. He gave opportunities without expecting anything in return. This is a painful loss.”
Another commented, “The technology sector has lost a brilliant mind. His dedication and determination inspired many of us.”
A third added, “This is heartbreaking. We were praying for good news every day. May justice prevail and may his family find strength during this difficult time.”
Perhaps the most emotional tribute came from social media personality MC Maasai, who described Kiplabat’s death as a major blow to young dreamers.
“The news of the tragedy of our brother Ken is not only tragic but also a blow to our youth who are struggling to put their dreams into reality. He mentored many youth and embodied resilience and focus. Forever in our hearts, Ken.”
As investigations continue, many unanswered questions remain. What happened to the young entrepreneur during the days he was missing? How did he end up in Gilgil? And what led to his untimely death?
For now, family, friends, and the wider community can only mourn the loss of a man whose ambition, generosity, and vision left a lasting impact on countless lives. His death has not only robbed Kenya’s technology sector of a promising entrepreneur but has also left a painful void in the hearts of those who knew and admired him.
