Video of Ngugi Wa Thiong'o Enjoying Dance with Kenyans in UK Emerges after His Death: "Living Life"
- Before his passing following a prolonged illness, celebrated author Ngugi Wa Thiong'o visited Leeds in the United Kingdom (UK)
- He was accompanied by his son, Mukoma wa Ngugi, who, as seen in a video, held his hand and supported him as he got out of a car
- In the throwback video, Thiong'o was welcomed by several Kenyans who sang a lovely Kikuyu song to the legendary author
A throwback video of celebrated author Ngugi Wa Thiong'o has emerged following his sudden demise.
Source: Facebook
The legendary writer’s death was announced by his daughter, Wanjiku Wa Ngugi, on Wednesday night, May 28.
The iconic giant of African literature passed away at the age of 87 following an illness, leaving many heartbroken.
Many have mourned the novelist, sharing fond memories of him after his passing.
Ngugi wa Thiong'o arrives in Leeds, UK
A video of the veteran author abroad has resurfaced as more tributes appeared on social media.
“Professor Ngugi Wa Thiong'o arrives in the UK to meet Kenyans in Leeds,” read the text in the video.
The renowned Kenyan writer was accompanied by his son, Mukoma Wa Ngugi, for the overseas trip.
They were joyfully welcomed by Kenyans in the diaspora, who marked his arrival with a popular Kikuyu song.
Ngugi wa Thiong'o's son holds his hands
As Thiong'o got out of the grey car, his dreadlocked son Mukoma held his hand to support him.
Thiong'o had a crutch on the other side, which he used for stability to move a short distance from the car.
The car door remained open as Thiong'o stood in awe of the warm welcome from his fellow Kenyans.
His son, smiling, moved from side to side as he danced, trying to engage his ill father in the light moment.
Thiong'o struggling to stand in Leeds
Thiong'o appeared to be struggling to stand and walk properly, but that did not stop him from attempting to dance a little.
The guests added more energy to their song and dance, with one person even holding the flag of Kenya.
They sang joyfully before stopping to receive their distinguished visitor, who had authored over 40 books.
Thiong'o appeared delighted by the warm welcome in a place where he shared a rich history, as the heartwarming clip came to an end.
Kenyans react to Ngugi Wa Thiong'o's video in Leeds
Social media users who watched the video were touched and headed to the comment section to share their reactions:
Andrew Akhonya Asiza:
"As the artist of his two book covers, A Grain of Wheat and The River Between, I take this opportunity to send my condolences. May his soul rest in peace."
Patricia Gonde:
"The River Between. A Grain of Wheat. I Will Marry When I Want. Rest in peace, legend."
Olarewaju Seriki:
"The great African icon—a warrior, a legend, and a great teacher to the world—has joined the ancestors. May his gentle soul rest peacefully in eternal peace. His contributions to humanity through his work will never be forgotten."
Teresiah Njambi Biu:
"Ngugi Wa Thiong'o has left a great legacy as a writer and a fearless champion of human rights, even when it meant putting his life on the line for others. He is one of the greatest writers of all time. May he rest in peace."
Grace Kiarie:
"RIP, great leader and writer of many books, Ngugi."
Kiptulwayat St. Aubin:
"Rest in peace, THE super legend. I enjoyed The River Between so much that I was nicknamed "Kab Onyi"—and I’m Kalenjin. Shine on your way with the angels."
Source: Facebook
Kenyans share favourite quotes from The River Between novel
In another story, Kenyans fondly remembered Thiong'o’s nostalgic book The River Between, sharing their favorite quotes.
One Kenyan highlighted a quote from the book:
“A saviour had come. He had opened the eyes of his people. He had awakened the sleeping lions.”
The netizen suggested that Thiong'o had seen the future and was speaking of the Gen Zs who are now flexing their might through demonstrations.
Proofreading by Asher Omondi, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
