Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, Kenyan literary icon and internationally acclaimed author, has died at 87.
Wanjiku wa Ngugi, the late Thiong’o’s daughter, confirmed his passing 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,” the post reads.
“He lived a full life and fought a good fight. As was his last wish, let’s celebrate his life and work. Rîa ratha na rîa thŭa. Tŭrî aira!
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“The family’s spokesperson Nducu Wa Ngugi will announce details of his celebration of life soon.”
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, born on January 5, 1938, in rural Kenya, is a globally recognised author and political activist known for his significant contributions to literature and his advocacy for African languages and identity.
His works, spanning novels, essays, and plays, delve into themes of colonialism, post-colonial struggles, cultural heritage, and social justice.
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