Catherine Nyamato: David Maraga Pays Tribute to Ex-MP, Honours Her Advocacy for Women
- Witnesses recounted the moment late ex-MP Catherine Nyamato tragically collapsed and died at her home in Nyamira
- Former CJ David Maraga, in his tribute, listed how Nyamato uplifted women and girls in the society throughout her leadership career
- Other leaders joined in mourning Nyamato, including former IEBC commissioner Roselyn Akombe, who disclosed her relationship with the fallen MP
Education is Your Right! Don’t Let Social Norms Hold You Back. Learn Online with TUKO. Enroll Now!
Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features for digital and print media.
Former chief justice David Maraga has led tributes following the death of Catherine Moraa Nyamato, the trailblazing leader and first woman from Gusii to be nominated to parliament.
Source: Twitter
Nyamato reportedly collapsed and died by the roadside near her farm in Kijauri, Nyamira county, on Wednesday, July 16.
According to witnesses, she had been engaging local youth in a conversation about an ongoing community project when the tragedy occurred.
Search option is now available at TUKO! Feel free to search the content on topics/people you enjoy reading about in the top right corner ;)
Nyamato served as a nominated member of parliament between 1995 and 1997, having earlier contested for the West Mugirango parliamentary seat.
She broke historic barriers and used her position to champion girls' education, advocate for the rights of women and vulnerable groups, and oppose harmful practices such as female circumcision and the lynching of the elderly.
How did Maraga mourn Catherine Nyamato?
In a heartfelt condolence message, Maraga described her as a 'distinguished daughter of Gusii' and a courageous reformer whose voice amplified the needs of women, the elderly, and the marginalised.
“At a time when few dared to rise, she answered the call, amplifying the voices of women, girls, the elderly, and the vulnerable,” Maraga stated. “Her unwavering courage in the face of social backlash demonstrated her profound commitment to justice and equity.”
Maraga praised Nyamato’s key role in the women’s movement, including her involvement in civic forums and the Bomas constitution-making process.
As secretary-general of the Kenya League of Women Voters, she advocated for women’s participation in politics and mentored many who now hold leadership positions both in Kenya and abroad.
“Today, we honour not only her legacy but also the values she exemplified—integrity, compassion, and fearless leadership,” Maraga added. “She was an exemplary leader whose courage lit a path for reform and dignity.”
He concluded by expressing hope that Nyamato’s legacy would continue to inspire justice, fairness, and equal opportunity in Kenya.
Other leaders from across the region have also sent condolences, remembering Nyamato as a pioneering figure in Kenya’s journey toward gender equity and inclusive governance.
Source: Twitter
How did other leaders mourn Nyamato?
@KEWOPA
"KEWOPA mourns the passing of former nominated MP Hon. Catherine Nyamato, a fearless advocate for women’s rights who boldly championed gender equality, fought against FGM, and inspired generations of women leaders in Kenya. Her legacy will live on in the continued struggle for inclusive leadership and justice for all."
@DrRoselynAkombe
"This loss is so deep. So devastating. Hon. Catherine Nyamato took me in as her daughter when I was in university and mentored me. I have lost my second mother, whom I loved so dearly and who meant so much to our family. Deep condolences to my sisters and brothers."
@HonJuliusMigos
"I am saddened by the sorrowful news of the demise of Catherine Moraa Nyamato. Nyamato will be remembered as a dedicated public servant, whose many years of public service included a stint as a nominated Member of Parliament between 1992 and 1997. Many will remember her for her tireless and selfless efforts to uplift her people, and for her integrity, compassion and humility. May her soul rest in eternal peace."
@EssyOkenyuri
"Let me take this opportunity to pass my condolences to the family, friends, Maendeleo Ya Wanawake Organisation ( which I am a member) and the people of Gusii for the loss of Hon. Catherine Nyamato. The loss of Catherine is a huge loss to women leadership in Gusii and Kenya at large.
A woman of valour who never compromised her beliefs, passionate in what she fought for, she never surrendered even in the face of intimidation. Through the Nyamato Foundation, where she was chairperson, she took part in programmes that were geared towards transforming the lives of her people. Even as her spirit lies in the quietude of death, her voice, while fighting for women's and girls' rights, will always ring in our ears. May Hon. Catherine Nyamato rest in eternal peace."
Police officer hacked to death in Rarieda
In other news, a police officer attached to Aram Police Station in Rarieda was brutally killed by unknown assailants in a suspected ambush.
Preliminary investigations suggested that the officer was hacked on the head and left to die by the roadside while returning to Aram Shopping Centre after an assignment.
His body was discovered lying in a pool of blood by a passerby. The officer had reportedly been stranded after the motorcycle he was using ran out of fuel shortly before the attack.
Proofreading by Jackson Otukho, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
