Ngugi wa Thiong’o cremated in US according to final wishes

By Newsflash Writer

Celebrated Kenyan author and academic Ngugi wa Thiong’o has been cremated in the United States, eight days after his passing, in accordance with his final wishes, his family has announced.

The iconic 87-year-old writer died on the morning of Wednesday, May 28, after battling long-term health problems, including kidney complications and restricted mobility.

“We are heartbroken to share that our father, Ngugi wa Thiong’o, passed away this Wednesday morning, May 28, 2025. He lived fully and fought bravely. As he wished, let us honor his life and literary legacy. Rîa ratha na rîa thŭa. Tŭrî aira,” his daughter, Wanjiku wa Ngugi, stated.

His son, Mukoma wa Ngugi, confirmed the cremation, emphasizing that it honored Ngugi’s personal request.

“Professor Ngugi wa Thiong’o was cremated in the US, fulfilling his last wish,” Mukoma said on Thursday, June 6.

The family has said that a memorial celebration of his life is being planned. Additional details are expected to be shared by his son, Nducu wa Ngugi.

Ngugi, who was born James Ngugi in 1938, is regarded as one of Africa’s most influential literary figures. Writing in both English and Gikuyu, he strongly advocated for the use of native African languages in literature.

His short story The Upright Revolution: Or Why Humans Walk Upright has been translated into over 100 languages.

Ngugi gained global recognition in the 1960s and 70s through his bold novels and essays that critiqued colonialism and explored cultural identity and resistance.

In 1977, his play Ngaahika Ndeenda (I Will Marry When I Want), co-written with Ngugi wa Mirii, was banned shortly after its debut, leading to his imprisonment without trial. Amnesty International later designated him a prisoner of conscience.

Ngugi leaves behind a monumental legacy that challenged oppression and reshaped African literature.