Farewell to theatre icon David Mulwa

By Newsflash Writer

Thespian, writer, and veteran academic David Mulwa, who passed away on Friday evening, is being remembered as one of Kenya’s most influential artistic figures.

His literary works have been taught widely in secondary schools and universities as part of the national curriculum. According to his widow, Ms Janet Mulwa, the celebrated actor succumbed to cardiac arrest at a city hospital. Mulwa had long battled kidney complications and had been on dialysis for several years.

She appealed for help in clearing a medical bill that has accumulated to Sh2.5 million. Among his notable books are Inheritance, Clean Hands, Redemption, Master and Servant, Daraja, Bahati’s Love Nest and We Come in Peace. His screen appearances include To Walk With Lions—a film inspired by the life of conservationist George Adamson—Eyes of a Witness, Makutano Junction, Dangerous Affair and 100 Days.

A profound loss to Kenya’s artistry

“I am in disbelief! What a blow and tragedy! Mulwa and I have been inseparable since our days at KU in the 1970s. Initially, there were three of us — (Francis) Imbuga, Mulwa, and Bukenya — calling ourselves ‘pirates’ with our endless humour. Now I remain alone … utterly devastated!” Prof Austin Bukenya said. Mulwa’s death coincides with Kenyatta University’s 32nd Culture Week celebrations, an event for which he served as the inaugural director of the planning committee. He was a consistent presence at the annual festival, which showcases culture through music, dance, exhibitions, fashion and other artistic expressions.

Mulwa was born in Mukaa, Machakos County, on April 9, 1945. He studied English Literature at the University of Nairobi before advancing to the University of California, Los Angeles, where he earned a Master’s degree in Theatre Arts. He spent the bulk of his distinguished career at Kenyatta University, shaping generations of actors and writers from 1973 until his retirement in 2020.

“We celebrate the life of David Mulwa — an exceptional actor, esteemed author and devoted educator. He shared his gifts generously, playing a central role in the growth of Kenya’s theatre and academic spaces with humility and steadfast dedication,” former Machakos Town MP Victor Munyaka said.