Tributes are streaming in from across the country and around the world following the death of renowned Kenyan author and intellectual Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, who passed away on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.
Among those mourning the loss is Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, who praised Ngũgĩ as a fearless voice for African dignity and justice.
“Sad to learn of the passing on of a literary giant whose words shaped African thought and inspired generations,” she said.
“Prof. Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o’s works challenged oppression and celebrated the power of indigenous voices with courage, globally advocating for African languages. Though he has left us, his legacy lives on in every story, every struggle, and every dream of a just world. Rest in power, Prof. Ngũgĩ. Heartfelt condolences.”
Activist group Kong’amano la Mapinduzi also honoured the late writer’s lifelong commitment to liberation, language, and truth.
“Thiong’o, through his words, gave voice to the oppressed. Through his courage, he challenged systems. He taught us the power of language, memory and resistance. His stories live on in books, classrooms and in the hearts of generations. Rest in Power, comrade wa Ngũgĩ!”
Chief Executive Officer, Music Copyright Society of Kenya, Dr. Ezekiel Mutua, a prominent media and cultural commentator, described Ngũgĩ as one of Africa’s most powerful minds and literary forces.
“Ngũgĩ, a literary legend and one of Africa’s greatest voices, has passed away. Through masterpieces like Petals of Blood and Ngahika Ndenda, written in both Kikuyu and English, Thiong’o became a towering figure and a celebrated thinker. My deepest condolences go out to his family and friends around the world. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
More tributes
Mzilikazi wa Africa: “The baobab tree has fallen: Literature giant, intellectual thinker and award winning author, Ngũgĩ Wa Thiong’o, is no more. He passed away this morning in Atlanta, USA at the age of 87. #RIPNgũgĩ.”
Lawrence Kitema: “Thiong’o was more than a writer — he was a revolutionary thinker who used language and literature to fight for freedom, culture, and truth. His legacy will live on through his powerful words and unwavering spirit. Rest in peace, Prof. We have lost a legend. Prof. Ngũgĩ wa.”
