Ngugi Wa Thiong'o's Son Mukoma Mourns Veteran Dad in Emotional Post: "I Am Me Because of Him"

• Shortly after his sister, Wanjiku wa Ngugi, broke the news of the passing of veteran writer Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, Mukoma wa Ngugi, the late author's son, shared a heartfelt post online
• Mukoma posted a throwback picture with his legendary father as he mourned his untimely death
• He noted that his father had shaped his career, having followed in his footsteps in literature, as Kenyans joined him in offering condolences

The son of literary giant Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o took to social media to mourn his father, whose death was announced on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.

Mukoma wa Ngugi joined family, friends, and fellow Kenyans in mourning the loss.

Wanjiku wa Ngugi, Mukoma’s sister, had broken the devastating news on her Facebook account, leaving many shocked and heartbroken.

“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our dad, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, this Wednesday morning, 28th May 2025. He lived a full life and fought a good fight. As was his last wish, let's celebrate his life and his work."

Read also

Rigathi Gachagua shares Ngugi wa Thiong'o's book that comforted him after ouster: "I read and re-read"

At what age did Ngũgĩ Wa Thiong'o die?

"The family's spokesperson, Nducu wa Ngugi, will announce details of his celebration of life soon,” Wanjiku shared.

Around the same time, Mukoma penned a moving tribute as he grieved his father, who passed away at the age of 87.

He expressed how difficult it was to articulate his emotions due to the pain of losing his role model, the man who had inspired him to venture into literature.

“It tears my heart to say that my father, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, passed away earlier today. I am me because of him in so many ways—as his child, scholar, and writer. I love him—I am not sure what tomorrow will bring without him here. I think that is all I have to say for now,” he wrote.

Mukoma's TBT photo with dad Ngũgĩ

Mukoma also shared a nostalgic photo of himself with his late father, taken at an event they had attended together.

Read also

William Ruto pays touching tribute to author Ngugi wa Thiong'o: "His patriotism is undeniable"

In the touching image, Mukoma appears relaxed, while his father is seen speaking with another man.

Mukoma rests his head slightly on his left arm, legs crossed, listening attentively. Both wore traditional African attire, which Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o often donned in celebration of African culture.

They were seated on a black leather sofa, with a microphone placed next to them, indicating they were likely being interviewed.

Kenyans console Ngugi wa Thiong'o's son

Kenyans expressed their sympathies to Mukoma, offering heartfelt condolences following the loss of his father, who passed away after a period of illness.

Catherine Mwangi

"I want to say that he's only rested, but he will forever live in your hearts—and in the hearts of many who loved his work and his person. May his soul rest in eternal peace. His work will live on as a legacy of hard work. He taught us to live by what we believe. Rest with the angels, Papa."

Read also

Video of Ngugi Wa Thiong'o enjoying dance with Kenyans in UK emerges after his death: "Living life"

Michel Anne Frederic DeGraff:

"So very sorry, Mukoma. Your father was what we call a “Mapou” tree in Haiti—deep roots, many seeds. Yet his loss leaves a painful gap that can never be filled. I remember seeing the love between you two shine at a joint reading in Cambridge, Massachusetts, at the Brattle Theatre. Now I feel your pain. Condolences. In solidarity."

Shamini Flint:

"My deepest condolences. He was a giant of a man. A revolutionary figure in every way."

Denise St. Clair:

"Sending lots of love and light to you and your family, Mukoma. I'm so deeply sorry."

Hailey Higdon:

"Oh, my heart is with you, my friend."

Hazel Gachoka:

"Poleni sana, Mukoma and family. My sincere condolences."

Rebecca Kemble:

"Sending love and condolences to you and all who loved him. I’m glad you had the chance to come to terms with his full legacy while he was alive."

Read also

The River Between: Kenyans remember Ngugi wa Thiong'o's novel with nostalgia, share favourite quotes

Trial of Dedan Kimathi to ignite Kenyan stage

Separately, the Kenya National Theatre is set to host The Trial of Dedan Kimathi, a play that highlights the life and execution of one of Kenya’s greatest heroes.

The play, written by the late Ngũgĩ Wa Thiong’o, has been staged in various countries and widely used as an educational tool in Kenya.

The play aims to showcase to Kenyans what happened during the colonial rule, giving them insight into the country's history.

Racheal Nyaguthie, HoD Human Interest, updated this article with reactions.

Proofreading by Mercy Nyambura, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.

Source: TUKO.co.ke