By Lisbeth Micheni, Kenya
Celebrated Kenyan writer and scholar Ngugi wa Thiong’o has been cremated in the United States, in line with his final request to be laid to rest in the place where he passed away.
His son, Mukoma wa Ngugi, confirmed the decision, noting that while cremation is not widely practiced in African traditions, the family respected Ngugi’s personal wish.
Ngugi, who died on May 28 in Atlanta, Georgia, at the age of 87, was one of Africa’s most influential literary figures. His body of work, written in both English and Gikuyu, earned him global acclaim and firmly placed Kenya on the world literary map.
Known for his fierce advocacy for African languages, decolonization, and social justice, Ngugi spent much of his life in academia abroad, inspiring generations through his writing and teaching.
The family’s decision to follow his wishes marks a personal and symbolic closure to a life that defied convention and championed freedom of thought.
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