By Ghazali Ibrahim 
Renowned Kenyan author and literary icon Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o has died at the age of 87.
His daughter, Wanjiku wa Ngugi, announced his passing in a Facebook post on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.
The family has confirmed that Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o lived a full life and fought a good fight, and they will be celebrating his life and work according to his last wish.
Details of the celebration will be announced soon by the family’s spokesperson, Nducu wa Ngugi.
Born on January 5, 1938, in rural Kenya, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o was one of the most prominent African writers of the past five decades.
He was globally renowned for his powerful storytelling, political activism, and commitment to African languages and identity.
The late Kenyan writer authored many influential novels, essays, and plays that explored colonialism, post-colonial struggles, cultural heritage, and social justice.
Some of his most popular works include “Weep Not, Child,” “The River Between,” “Petals of Blood,” and “A Grain of Wheat.”
Throughout his life, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o was an outspoken critic of government oppression and a staunch advocate for decolonising African literature and elevating indigenous languages in global discourse.
He taught at top universities, including Yale University and the University of California, Irvine, where he served as a Professor of English and Comparative Literature.
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o’s legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations of writers, scholars, and activists.
His contributions to African literature and culture will be remembered for years to come.
