The abduction has deeply shaken both her family and the community of Itunduimuni, where she is widely known as "Queen."
Josephine, 43, is the only female truck driver in the Masinga region, a title that has earned her respect and admiration. For nearly 20 years, she has navigated Africa’s dangerous highways, driving through deserts, mountains, and conflict zones, all while hauling goods between countries.
Her hard work and courage have turned her into a legendary figure, both within the local trucking industry and among those who know her personally.
But this admiration has quickly turned to concern after Josephine was abducted in the DRC while on one of her regular trucking routes. With no news about her whereabouts, her family is in distress, especially her husband, Peter Ndolo.
Peter Ndolo, a quiet and supportive man, has been unable to cope with the uncertainty surrounding his wife’s fate. In an act of desperation, he has gone on a hunger strike, refusing to eat until he hears from her or learns about her condition. He has taken up residence outside the local chief’s office, determined to pressure authorities into finding her.
“I don’t even know if she’s alive. They took my Queen, and now I’m left in darkness,” Ndolo tearfully told reporters. His sleepless nights and frail appearance reflect the emotional toll the abduction has taken on him. As the father of two children, he has struggled to stay strong for their sake, but his worry for his wife has consumed him.
Local villagers describe Peter as a loving and dedicated husband who has always stood by Josephine, despite the challenges of her demanding and dangerous job. He was proud of her achievements, but now, he feels helpless and tormented by the thought that she may never return.
"She has faced dangerous roads and hostile terrains, but this is unbearable," Peter whispered, barely able to speak from exhaustion. His fears are worsened by the fact that no concrete information has been received from the authorities in Kenya or the DRC.
Efforts are underway to locate Josephine, but so far, no significant leads have been found. Kenyan and DRC officials have both launched investigations, but the complexity of operating in such a vast and conflict-ridden region makes it difficult. As days pass with no news, the anxiety in Itunduimuni grows.
The village is tightly knit, and Josephine’s disappearance has impacted everyone. Neighbors and friends have rallied around Peter, bringing him water and offering prayers for his wife’s safe return. However, the sense of uncertainty hangs over the village like a dark cloud.
Josephine Wanza is more than just a truck driver to the people of Itunduimuni. She symbolizes strength, determination, and courage. Over the years, she has broken barriers in a male-dominated industry, showing that women too can conquer Africa’s toughest roads. Her disappearance has not only shaken her family but also the trucking community that looked up to her.
For now, the village remains hopeful. Everyone is praying that their “Queen” will soon return to her throne behind the wheel, continuing her fearless journey across Africa. But until that day comes, Peter’s hunger strike continues, a heartbreaking symbol of a husband’s love and desperation for the truth about his wife’s fate.
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