Kenyan literary icon Ngügĩ wa Thiong’o dies at 87
Renowned Kenyan author and academic Ngügĩ wa Thiong’o has been reported dead at 87, and while alive he remained an influential figure in African literature, despite facing imprisonment and exile due to his criticism of the dictatorial government in Kenya.
Penpushing reports that Wanjiku Wa Ngugi, daughter of the famous author announced his death on facebook page on Wednesday adding that her late father lived a fulfilled life and fought a good fight
‘It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our dad, Ngügĩ 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 work. Ria ratha na ria thua. Turi aira”, she wrote
Penpushing further reports that she spoke about her father’s legacy and last wish, adding that, the family’s spokesperson, Nducu Wa Ngugi, will announce details of his celebration of life soon.
The literary icon was born on January 5,1938, authored many books, novels, plays, short stories, and essays which include ‘Weep Not Child’, ‘The River Between’, ‘Petals of Blood and Wizard of the Crow’.
Penpushing also reports that he was popular for his literary style, children’s literature, and open criticism of social disorder and was considered East Africa’s leading novelist, founded and edited Mutiri, a Gikuyu journal.
This short story, ‘The Upright Revolution: Or Why Humans Walk Upright’, was translated into 100 languages and sold worldwide, while record has it that the deceased work includes novels, plays, short stories, and essays on topics ranging from literary and social criticism to children’s literature.
Penpushing reports that sources in March 2024, it is recalled said Ngugi was suffering from kidney failure and was living alone and under the care of medical personnel at his house in California, United States of America (USA).
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