Ngugi wa Thiong’o was a renowned Kenyan author, academic Scholar, and playwright celebrated as East Africa’s leading novelist. He studied at Makerere University and later the University of Leeds. For literature lovers and schools within Uganda and globally, he is known for his books, “Weep Not, Child,” “The River Between,” “I Will Marry When I Want,” and many more.
Ngugi wa Thiong’o passed away on May 28, 2025, at the age of 87, in California, United States, where he had been undergoing dialysis three times a week and receiving care at his home due to complications related to kidney failure. At the time of his passing, Wa Thiong’o held a position as a professor of comparative literature at the University of California.
Ngugi wa Thiong’o’s death was announced by his family through a statement by his daughter, Wanjiku Wa Ngugi, which she shared on 28th May ,2025 on Facebook.
Born on January 5, 1938, in Kamiriithu, Kenya, with the given names James Thiong’o Ngugi, he later changed his name to Ngugi wa Thiong’o. He wrote in both English and Gikuyu, exploring themes of identity, culture, and social justice.
Many stakeholders around Africa, especially in the East Africa region, and fans of his artistic writings have expressed condolence messages to the family and Kenya. Ngugi wa Thiong’o’s work continues to inspire readers and writers worldwide, promoting cultural awareness, social justice, and literary excellence. His commitment to writing in his native language, Gikuyu, has also been an inspiration to many, as he prioritized the use of native languages.
A great writer and the father of literature in Africa, Ngugi wa Thiong’o leaves a legacy of penned great works of inspiration, justice, and African unity.
Read Also: Uganda Joins The World To Commerate Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025
