Staff from across Parliament gathered in Wangige, Kiambu County, to pay their last respects to their colleague and friend, the late Mr. Gathogo Mungai Kamau, a long serving parliamentary chef remembered for his dedication, humility, and commitment to service
Speaking during the funeral service, the Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly, Ms. Serah Kioko, eulogised Mr. Mungai as one of Parliament’s most diligent and dependable employees, noting that his passing was a great loss to the Parliamentary Service Commission and the wider parliamentary fraternity.
“We have lost a dear friend who was one of our very best. The Parliamentary Service Commission has lost greatly,” said Ms. Kioko.
Mr. Mungai joined Parliament on 13th May 2005 as a Chef III and steadily rose through the ranks through hard work and commitment to become a Sous Chef, the position he held until his untimely demise on 29th April 2026.
Ms. Kioko described the late Mungai as a bright and selfless individual who willingly shared his knowledge and skills with colleagues.
She recalled how freely he would walk into her office for conversations on various matters, describing this as a testament to his warm, friendly, and caring nature.
She reminded mourners that although life is fleeting, Mr. Mungai lived his life fully and purposefully.
Quoting Psalms 90:12, Ms. Kioko said, “Teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.”
“So that we may do what we are called upon to do, just as Mungai did,” she added.
The Deputy Clerk also conveyed a message of condolence from the Secretary of the Parliamentary Service Commission and Clerk of the Senate, Mr. Jeremiah Nyegenye, who praised the late Mungai’s passion for the culinary arts from a young age.
“I have come to learn of his artistic interests, including his passion for the culinary arts from a young age. His life is a lesson to all of us that interests can indeed be converted into fulfilling careers,” read part of the message.
The message further encouraged mourners to pursue their dreams boldly.
“Without leaps of imagination or dreaming, we lose the excitement of possibilities. Therefore, I urge us all to dream big and pursue our interests against all odds because only we have the ability to advocate for our dreams and, with conviction, inspire others to support our journey.”
In consoling the bereaved family, the Clerk’s message noted: “Grief is the price we pay for love, but sudden grief is a bill presented with no notice. The loss of a child is profound, but take heart in the assurance that ‘The Lord is near to the broken-hearted and saves those crushed in spirit’ (Psalm 34:18).”
The preacher of the day, Rev. Mbaka Imwara, also condoled with the family, assuring them that God would sustain them during the difficult period.
“There is no vacuum in the Kingdom of God. Where Mungai has left, God will fill that vacuum,” said Rev. Imwara.
He also commended the leadership and staff from Parliament for standing with the family during the mourning period.
