```html Six Dead in Kenya Plane Crash, Including Medical Personnel

Six people have died after a light aircraft belonging to Amref Flying Doctors, a medical charity, crashed in Nairobi, Kenya. The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon in the Githurai area, a residential suburb of the capital. Four of the deceased were on board the Cessna plane, including medical doctors, nurses, and the pilot. Two individuals on the ground were also killed, and two others sustained serious injuries.

The plane was en route to Hargeisa, Somalia, when it crashed shortly after taking off from Wilson Airport, a hub for smaller aircraft and flight training schools. According to the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), the aircraft lost both radio and radar contact with air traffic control just three minutes after takeoff.

Investigation Underway to Determine Cause

Kenyan authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash. Investigators from the KCAA and other relevant agencies have been dispatched to the scene to gather evidence and analyze the wreckage. The focus will be on determining whether mechanical failure, pilot error, or other factors contributed to the accident.

“At this time, we are cooperating fully with relevant aviation authorities and emergency response teams to establish the facts surrounding the situation,” said Amref CEO Stephen Gitau in a statement released shortly after the incident.

The Kenya Defence Forces and the National Police Service were deployed to the crash site to conduct search and recovery operations, securing the area and managing the immediate aftermath.

Eyewitness Account Describes Scene of Devastation

Patricia Kombo, an eyewitness, recounted the horrifying scene to the BBC. "I was in a cab with my friends heading to Githurai when we heard a loud bang and a red flash ahead of us," she said. "Before I could take my phone to record, the flash was gone and smoke was billowing. We then heard people screaming and running, and so we ended our trip. We then discovered it was a plane crash and saw the sunken hole the crash had created in the ground."

Amref Flying Doctors: A Vital Service

Amref Flying Doctors provides critical medical evacuation and outreach services to remote and underserved communities across East Africa. The organization plays a crucial role in providing access to healthcare in regions where infrastructure and resources are limited. This incident raises concerns about the safety of air travel in the region, particularly for smaller aircraft operating in challenging environments.

Expert Perspective: Challenges of Air Safety in Africa

According to aviation safety analyst, Captain (Rtd.) James Omondi, "While air travel in Africa has generally improved in recent years, challenges remain. These include aging aircraft fleets, inadequate infrastructure at some airports, and the need for enhanced regulatory oversight. Accidents involving smaller aircraft, particularly those operating in remote areas, highlight the importance of rigorous maintenance schedules, comprehensive pilot training, and adherence to strict safety protocols."

Historical Context: Aviation Safety in Kenya

Kenya has experienced several aviation accidents in recent years. In 2023, the country mourned the loss of its military chief in a helicopter crash. These incidents have prompted calls for increased investment in aviation safety and infrastructure. While Kenya has made strides in modernizing its aviation sector, particularly at major international airports, challenges persist in ensuring safety across the board, especially for smaller operators and in remote regions.

Recent Incidents Highlight Safety Concerns

The plane crash occurred on the same day as a separate incident involving a train and a bus collision near Naivasha town, central Kenya, resulting in at least four fatalities, according to Reuters news agency citing a Red Cross worker. The bus belonged to the Kenya Pipeline Company and was transporting staff.

Impact and Future Implications

The tragic crash has sent shockwaves through Kenya and the wider East African region. It raises questions about the safety and regulation of smaller aircraft operations, particularly in densely populated areas. The investigation's findings will be crucial in identifying the root causes of the accident and implementing measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The loss of medical professionals also represents a significant blow to healthcare provision in the region, highlighting the risks faced by those dedicated to serving remote communities. ```