Kenya and the world are mourning the death of renowned author, playwright, and scholar Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, who passed away on the morning of Wednesday, May 28, at the age of 87.
The news of his death was confirmed by his daughter, Wanjiku wa Ngugi, in a statement shared with the public.
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our dad, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, on the morning of Wednesday, May 28, 2025,” she said.
“He lived a full life and fought a good fight. As per his last wish, let us celebrate his life and his work.”
Ngũgĩ, best known for literary masterpieces such as A Grain of Wheat, The River Between, and Petals of Blood, spent his later years in California, USA.
His writing deeply rooted in the struggles for justice, identity, and cultural preservation earned him international acclaim and positioned him as one of Africa’s most influential intellectuals.
In the hours following the announcement, tributes poured in from leaders across Kenya’s political spectrum, all recognizing Ngũgĩ’s towering contributions to literature and thought.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga described Ngũgĩ as “a giant African” whose legacy will endure for generations.
“A giant African has fallen. Rest in Eternal Peace, author Prof Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o!” Odinga posted on social media.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recalled how Ngũgĩ’s work profoundly influenced his worldview both literary and political.
“The passing of Prof. Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o has orphaned Africa; we, the students of literature, have borne it all,” he said.
“His inspiration to me went beyond the classroom into my political world. When I left office late last year, I read and re-read his book, A Grain of Wheat.”
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi praised Ngũgĩ as one of East Africa’s most distinguished literary minds.
“Through timeless works like The River Between, Petals of Blood, and A Grain of Wheat, he illuminated the soul of a nation, challenged the status quo, and gave voice to generations.”
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen noted Ngũgĩ’s global influence and educational impact.
“Through his highly innovative approach to literature, he inspired countless authors and leaders across generations.
His legacy endures in the books that many generations of Kenyans studied or read for enjoyment.”
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula described him as a writer “not confined by the ordinary constraints of storytelling,” while Senate Speaker Amason Kingi emphasized Ngũgĩ’s commitment to linguistic decolonization and advocacy for social justice through his works.
The family has stated that funeral arrangements are underway and details will be communicated soon. According to Wanjiku wa Ngugi:
“The family’s spokesperson, Nducu wa Ngugi, will announce details of his celebration of life soon.”
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o leaves behind a monumental legacy as a voice of resistance, a chronicler of post-colonial Africa, and a fierce defender of indigenous languages and identities.
His works continue to shape academic discourse, inspire activists, and resonate with readers across continents.
Kenya, Africa, and the global literary community have lost a legend but his words, stories, and spirit will live on.
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