posted 28th May 2025
Renowned Kenyan Writer and Academic Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o Passes Away
The literary world is reeling from the shocking news of the death of Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, the celebrated Kenyan writer, academic, and champion of African heritage. His passing marks the loss of a true literary colossus whose powerful works profoundly shaped African literature and inspired resistance against colonialism and oppression in post-colonial Africa.
Ngũgĩ, widely regarded as one of Africa’s most influential voices, leaves behind a legacy that resonates across the continent and beyond. His novels, essays, and plays, including Weep Not, Child, A Grain of Wheat, and Decolonising the Mind, challenged colonial narratives and celebrated the richness of African culture and languages. His commitment to writing in his native Gikuyu, alongside English, broke new ground, empowering African writers to reclaim their linguistic and cultural identities.
His works, infused with a deep sense of social justice, exposed the scars of colonialism and critiqued the inequalities of post-colonial societies. Ngũgĩ’s fearless advocacy for the marginalised and his unflinching critique of oppression inspired generations to resist injustice and embrace their heritage.
The news of his passing has sparked an outpouring of grief across Africa and the global literary community. Tributes have poured in, honouring his immense contributions to literature, education, and the fight for cultural sovereignty. Ngũgĩ’s influence will endure, etched in the hearts of readers and writers who continue to draw inspiration from his words.
Africa has lost a towering figure, but Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o’s legacy will live on through his timeless works. May his soul rest in peace.
