Gladys Wairimu Kariuki, the widow of the late GG Kariuki—former Internal Security Minister and Laikipia Senator—has died.
The revered matriarch passed away at Nairobi Hospital while undergoing treatment following a short illness, the family confirmed on Saturday through spokesperson Jimmy Waigwa.
Born in 1945, Mrs. Kariuki was a towering figure in Laikipia County, remembered not only as the wife of a political icon but as a dedicated public servant, teacher, and women’s empowerment champion in her own right.
A respected farmer in Rumuruti Ward, Gladys served the community for decades—first as a teacher at Ngarenaro Primary School, later as a councillor in the former Nyahururu Municipal Council, and prominently as the Chairlady of the Maendeleo ya Wanawake Organisation (MYWO) in Laikipia.
Her leadership at MYWO was marked by grassroots initiatives that uplifted countless women through economic empowerment and social education.
A woman of deep faith and principle, she was a long-standing member of the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA), worshipping in Rumuruti, Nyahururu, and Nairobi congregations.
She is survived by five children, numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom continue to uphold her legacy of service, humility, and community dedication.
Funeral arrangements are underway, and the family has requested privacy as they grieve the loss of their matriarch.
