Joshua Cheruiyot Kirui

Joshua Cheruiyot Kirui (c. 1984 – 23 May 2024) was a Kenyan mountaineer and banker. He was the second Kenyan to attempt summiting Mount Everest after James Kagambi who became the first Kenyan to reach Everest's peak at the age of 62 in 2022. Kirui climbed Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world, in September 2023 in his preparation for climbing Mount Everest in May 2024. Kirui died on 23 May 2024 during his attempt to climb summit of Mount Everest with the hope of becoming the first African to climb Mount Everest without extra oxygen. He died a few meters below the peak of Mount Everest.

Professional life
Kirui was a banker with one of Kenya's biggest lenders, Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB). KCB recognised Kirui as Kenyan hero and KCB's ambassador. Kirui served as the Senior Relationship Manager Schemes under Mortgage Division at KCB.

Personal life
Kirui was born to Wilson Kenduiywo and Ruth Kenduiywo originally from Chepterit, Nandi County. He started climbing at a young age and his passion for climbing mountains led to him authoring a book titled An Ultramarathon Story of the Tor des Geants. Kirui's mother mentioned that as a toddler, Kirui would be quick to climb the tallest trees in the compound and his lack of fear for heights would always give her chills.