Renowned Kenyan author and literary icon Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o died on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at the age of 87.
His death was disclosed in a Facebook post by his daughter, Wanjiku wa Ngugi.

“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.

“The family’s spokesperson, Nducu wa Ngugi, will announce details of his celebration of life soon,” she wrote.

Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, born on January 5, 1938, in rural Kenya, was one of the most prominent African writers of the past five decades. He was renowned globally for his powerful storytelling, political activism, and commitment to African languages and identity.

The late Kenyan writer authored many influential novels, essays, and plays that explored colonialism, post-colonial struggles, cultural heritage, and social justice.

Some of his most popular books include “Weep Not, Child,” “The River Between,” “Petals of Blood,” and “A Grain of Wheat.”
His chequered life included imprisonment without trial in 1977 due to his outspoken criticism of government oppression, and a self-imposed exile after his release, during which he continued his literary and academic work abroad.

In his lifetime, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o taught at top universities, including Yale University and the University of California, Irvine, where he served as a Professor of English and Comparative Literature.

The literary icon was a staunch advocate for decolonising African literature and elevating indigenous languages in global discourse.