By John Ogunsemore
Famous Kenyan writer, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o has died aged 87.
His daughter, Wanjiku Wa Ngugi announced his demise in a Facebook post on Wednesday.
“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, fought a good fight. As was his last wish, let’s celebrate his life and his work,” the post reads in part.
She added that details of funeral arrangements would be announced soon.
Born James Ngugi in Limuru, Kenya in 1938, the renowned writer, scholar, and playwright was a leading voice in African literature.
He gained global acclaim for his works exploring colonialism, cultural identity, and social justice.
His notable novels include Weep Not, Child (1964), The River Between (1965), and Petals of Blood (1977).
Initially writing in English, Ngũgĩ later embraced his native Gikuyu language to promote African languages and resist cultural imperialism, as seen in works like Decolonising the Mind (1986).
He faced persecution for his politically charged writing, including imprisonment in 1977, and later lived in exile.
Ngũgĩ’s contributions to literature and advocacy for linguistic decolonisation have earned him global recognition, including nominations for the Nobel Prize in Literature.