John Habwe: Renowned Kiswahili Scholar and UoN Professor Dies
- A respected Kiswahili professor at the University of Nairobi has passed away, sparking tributes from colleagues and students
- John Habwe taught for more than three decades and was celebrated for his scholarship, writing, and mentorship
- He authored over 40 Kiswahili books and worked widely as a consultant, translator, and media contributor
TUKO.co.ke journalist Harry Ivan Mboto has more than three years of experience reporting on politics and current affairs in Kenya
The Kenyan academic community is mourning the death of John Habwe, a renowned Kiswahili scholar who inspired generations of students through his teaching, writing, and mentorship.
Source: UGC
The news of his passing was shared by his close friend and colleague, Herman Manyora, who described Habwe as a dear companion and a devoted teacher.
"I have just received the sad news of the passing on of my dear friend, John Habwe. And I must now relay the unfortunate news to his colleagues at the University of Nairobi (UoN) and the entire academic community in the country and beyond. And to the many students he has taught and mentored. Rest well, Prof," Manyora wrote on his X account.
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John Habwe’s legacy
The professor had nearly 30 years of teaching experience at the university level.
At the time of his death, he was an associate professor in the department of Kiswahili at UoN. He had previously chaired the department of Kiswahili for three years until 2016, and earlier led the department of linguistics and languages for two years.
Beyond teaching, he provided advisory and consultancy services to publishing houses and educational institutions across Kenya.
Habwe was also known for mentoring postgraduate students, particularly in creative and academic writing.
His academic footprint extended to other universities, including Moi University, where he served as an external examiner, and Maseno and Catholic universities, where he lectured part-time.
Internationally, he worked with organisations such as the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), the World Health Organisation (WHO), and the Kiswahili Commission of East Africa, mainly as a translator.
For many years, Habwe contributed to Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) through the programmes Lugha Yetu and Mjadala, which he both participated in and chaired.
He also volunteered as an editorial consultant for the Kiswahili dictionary Kamusi ya Kiswahili Sanifu, published by Oxford University Press.
Which books did John Habwe write?
Habwe was a prolific author who combined academic scholarship with fiction writing. He wrote more than 40 books, ranging from Kiswahili grammar and course guides to children’s literature and novels.
Some of his notable works include the novels Maisha Kitendawili, Kovu Moyoni, Hidaya Yangu, and Pendo la Karaha, as well as the novellas Hadaa ya Maisha and Lulu ya Maisha.
He also published short stories such as Shujaa wa Taifa in the collection Kigoda cha Simanzi, Siku ya Kheri in Mwavyaji Roho na Hadithi Nyingine, and Mkimbizi in Waziri Mayai Waziri wa Maradhi.
Through his teaching, writing, and public engagement, John Habwe left a lasting impact on Kiswahili scholarship and on countless students who passed through his hands.
Source: UGC
Was Kasarani lecturer killed in family feud?
Habwe’s death came just days after a similar tragedy was reported in Nairobi.
Allan Kitavi, a lecturer and former chairman of the Komarock Residents Association Board of Trustees, was found dead at his second wife’s home in Thome Estate.
Police said CCTV footage captured two men entering Kitavi’s residence shortly before he returned home. Moments later, the suspects were seen leaving, and Kitavi was later discovered unconscious in the driveway with severe injuries.
Family members linked the death to property disputes, pointing out long-standing tensions between his first and second families.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
