A recently surfaced video on TikTok, shared by a user named Risper Kamau, has captured nationwide attention after revealing a rare and deeply emotional glimpse of the final, renovated grave of Kenya’s third President, H.E. Emilio Mwai Kibaki, and his beloved wife, First Lady Mama Lucy Kibaki. The video shows the serene and modest resting place in Othaya, Nyeri County—where both are laid to rest side by side, as was Kibaki’s final wish. The simplicity of the grave, covered with natural soil and floral arrangements rather than lavish materials, has struck a chord with many Kenyans, who view it as a reflection of Kibaki’s humility and down-to-earth leadership style.
President Mwai Kibaki, widely regarded as one of Kenya’s greatest statesmen, was honored with a full state funeral in April 2022. His body lay in state at Parliament, followed by a national requiem mass and a final burial ceremony in his rural hometown. The ceremony included military pallbearers, a 19-gun salute, and an air-force fly-past—symbols of the deep respect the nation held for the man who championed Kenya’s economic revival, infrastructure growth, and constitutional reforms. Lucy Kibaki, Kenya’s First Lady from 2002 to 2013, had passed away in 2016, and her legacy of strength and advocacy remains revered.
Since the burial, the Kenyan government has committed to constructing a permanent mausoleum at the site, designed to be both futuristic and dignified. President William Ruto and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have expressed strong support for the initiative, with Gachagua personally overseeing the project’s progress. The move is intended to create a lasting national monument to honor Kibaki’s immense contributions to the country.
Kenyans continue to express admiration for the modesty and grace with which Kibaki lived—and was buried. Social media reactions reflect a sense of national pride and emotional resonance. As one user commented, “Even in death, Kibaki teaches us humility and equality.” From his economic reforms to his personal values, Mwai Kibaki’s legacy remains etched not just in policy, but in the hearts of the people. May eternal peace be upon President Kibaki and First Lady Mama Lucy Kibaki, who now rest side by side beneath the quiet skies of Othaya.
