President William Ruto on Friday, May 5 led Kenyans in mourning the demise of Mukami Kimathi, a renowned Kenyan icon and widow of the late Dedan Kimathi, a legendary Mau Mau freedom fighter.
“We have received the saddening news of the death of Mukami Kimathi, a celebrated heroine of our nation’s struggle for independence. Mama Mukami Kimathi courageously withstood the brutality of colonial oppression, proudly wore the scars of the battle and bore the terrible losses of war with admirable fortitude,” Ruto stated in part.
The Head of State praised the 101-year-old widow as a legendary fighter in her own right and the wife of the legend, Dedan Waciuri Kimathi, who was captured, tried, and executed by the colonial state.
“Mukami Kimathi was also a steadfast patriot and well-known champion for national unity who inspired many Kenyans of all ages to cherish our country and stand ready to defend our values.
“On behalf of my family and the people of Kenya, I convey my condolences to the family of our departed heroine, Mukami Kimathi. I pray that the Almighty God grants you his divine solace at this time of sorrow,” added the President.
The Head of State further revealed that the country shall honour her memory and treasure her legacy.
According to her daughter, Evelyne Kimathi, Mukami passed away in Nairobi on Thursday night, May 4. Evelyne confirmed that her mother, fondly referred to as Maitû, was taken to Nairobi Hospital after developing breathing complications.
Evelyn said that her mother’s last wish was that Dedan Kimathi’s body be released from Kamiti Maximum Security Prison and given a dignified burial.
After winning the war for independence, Mama Mukami was left behind to fend for her children in the absence of Field Marshall Kimathi. In her characteristic way, she also won the battle.
On her part, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua mourned Mukami as a symbol of resilience, an icon of the country’s freedom and that Kenyans would treasure her life here on earth.
She will be laid to rest at her home in Njabini, Nyandarua County. Mukami’s body has been transferred to the Lee Funeral Home in Nairobi.
Mukami Kimathi’s husband Dedan Kimathi was a legendary Mau Mau freedom fighter who led the fight for Kenya’s independence from British colonial rule. Dedan Kimathi was captured and executed by the British on February 18, 1957, leaving behind his wife Mukami and their children.
