Renowned Kenyan writer and cultural icon Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o has passed away at the age of 87. His daughter, Wanjiku wa Ngugi, confirmed the news in a Facebook post on Wednesday 28th of May 2025.
“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, and fought a good fight. As was his last wish, let’s celebrate his life and work. Rîa ratha na rîa thŭa. Tŭrî aira!” she wrote.
She added that further details about his life celebration would be shared by the family spokesperson, Nducu Wa Ngugi.
Ngũgĩ, born James Thiong’o Ngũgĩ in 1938 during the British colonial era in Kenya, was raised in the town of Limuru in a large family of low-income farmers.
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o: Chronicler of Kenya’s Struggle and Voice of African Liberation
His writings chronicle Kenya’s journey from colonial rule to an independent democracy. In 1977, his outspoken criticism of political oppression led to his detention without trial.
Following his release, he left Kenya for self-imposed exile, continuing his literary and academic pursuits overseas.
Ngũgĩ’s celebrated works include:
Weep Not, Child (1964) – the first English-language novel published by a Kenyan writer.
The River Between (1965) – a narrative exploring the clash between tradition and modernity.
A Grain of Wheat (1967) – a poignant novel set during Kenya’s fight for independence.
Petals of Blood (1977) – a scathing indictment of post-independence corruption.
Devil on the Cross (1980) – initially written in Kikuyu as an act of political defiance. And so many other work of literature.
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o leaves behind a profound legacy as one of Africa’s most influential literary voices.
…by Ani Juliana.
📚 Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o’s words shaped generations and stirred consciousness across continents.
Celebrate his legacy with us.
👉 Explore more stories and reflections on African literature at LouisaOlaniyi.com.ng
Ani Juliana, is A 300l student of the University of Nigeria Nsukka,
With the passion for content writing and Copywriting.
