NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan 16 – I-DEV International has lost its Co-Founder and Chief Executive Jason Spindler during the 14 Riverside terrorist attack.
The news was released by his brother Jonathan Spindler on social media.
“Jason was a survivor of 9-11 and a fighter, I am sure he gave them hell, there are no words to describe how our family is feeling but I can say… Jason Spindler you are and will always be an amazing Son, Brother and Uncle,” Jonathan said.
I-DEV has worked with many Kenya tech companies and in 45 countries with more than 300 investors, companies, NGOs, and DFIs to build leading, high impact businesses and a stronger private sector in emerging markets.
According to Sam Gichuru, Chief Executive of Nailab, Spindler was one of the strong supporters of the Kenyan Tech space.
“Really sad to hear of the death of Jason Spindler CEO of I – DEV, a strong player and supporter of the Kenyan Tech Ecosystem. We pray for God’s grace and comfort for the family and team at I-Dev,” he said.
AppsAfrica founder Andrew Fassnidge has remembered Jason as someone who was always pushing boundaries and driving progress with I-Dev.
“… a simply great guy, with a big smile. Our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and colleagues. Rest In Peace.”
I-Dev was operating off Metta, an entrepreneur space located at one of the office blocks at 14 Riverside.
At the time of the attack, Metta had 45 people who all escaped safely according to Metta General Manager Maurice Otieno.
It is reported that Jason was having a late lunch with a friend at one of the restaurants within the complex when the attacks happened at around 4 p.m.
Meanwhile, mobile payment solution provider Cellulant, headquartered at 14 Riverside said some it’s of its employees were injured during the attack.
According to the management, the firm is currently taking a headcount of its employees and will issue a statement soon.
Cellulant is headquartered on 14 Riverside where the attack occurred.
“We will advise status shortly. Hotline for family members 0722791943/0722416420,” the firm says.
The firm operates in 11 countries.
Another company, Redhouse Group had accounted for all of their 112 employees.
In a statement, the Public Relations firm thanked Kenya’s Joint Security and Response teams for their swift response.
“Yesterday’s attack at 14 Riverside was a tragic day for Kenya, the most frightening day we have experienced as a Company. God has been gracious, and the joint operation by Kenya’s Security, Rescue and Emergency teams were to say the least – meticulous, precise and swift. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of the innocent friends and neighbours that lost their lives,” the firm said.
On Wednesday, President Uhuru Kenyatta confirmed 14 people were killed during the attack and several people injured.
The Head of state says all the attackers had been killed.