“Weep Not Child!”
But East Africa’s renowned novelist, poet and literature giant, Ngugi wa Thiong’o is dead.
The news of the famous Kenyan author’s death was announced by his family on Wednesday evening, 28th May 2025.
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our dad, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o,” her daughter Wanjiku wa Ngugi said in a Facebook post on Wednesday night.
“As was his last wish, let’s celebrate his life and his work,” she stated.
She then added, “Rîa ratha na rîa thŭa. Tŭrî aira!” which is a phrase in Gikuyu language, meaning “With joy and sorrow … We are proud.”
Ngugi wa Thiongo a pan African activist who at one time was forced to live in exile overseas, in London, U.K, is reported to have been 87 years old by the time of his death.
Many of his books were used in English Literature throughout the East African region.
Plans for memorial services and public tributes are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
“The family’s spokesperson, Nducu Wa Ngugi, will announce details of his celebration of life soon,” Wanjiku said.
Like Nigeria’s Chinua Achebe, Ngugi was a towering figure in African literature, with his influence spreading across continents, languages, and generations.
Some of his popular works include, The River Between, ‘I will Marry when I want!’ A Grain of Wheat, Petals of Blood, Devil on the Cross and Weep not Child.
The Kenyan writer championed the use of African languages in literature and resisted colonial and neo-colonial systems of oppression throughout his life. He also lectured extensively around the globe.
Born in 1937 in Kamiriithu, Limuru, Ngũgĩ’s work was deeply intertwined with Kenya’s struggle for independence and postcolonial identity.