The world of literature is in mourning following the passing of iconic Kenyan writer and activist Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, who died peacefully Wednesday morning in the United States at the age of 87.
His daughter, Wanjiku wa Ngũgĩ, confirmed the news on Facebook, writing:
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our dad, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o this Wednesday morning, 28th May 2025. He lived a full life, fought a good fight. As was his last wish, let’s celebrate his life and his work. Rîa ratha na rîa thŭa. Tŭrî aira!”
The family’s spokesperson, Nducu wa Ngũgĩ, is expected to release details about the memorial and celebration of life ceremonies in the coming days.
Ngũgĩ, born in 1937 in Kamĩrĩthũ, Kiambu, leaves behind a towering legacy as one of Africa’s most celebrated intellectuals.
Known for works such as Weep Not, Child, The River Between, Decolonising the Mind, and Mũrogi wa Kagogo (Wizard of the Crow), he championed African languages and identity throughout his life.
He spent years in exile following his arrest by the Moi regime in 1977 after the performance of his revolutionary play Ngaahika Ndeenda.
He later became a professor in top global universities and remained a fearless voice against neocolonialism and cultural imperialism.
His commitment to writing in Gikuyu, despite political backlash, redefined African literature and education.
