Former First Lady Lucy Kibaki dies in London hospital
Former First Lady Lucy Kibaki dies in London hospital.Former First Lady Lucy Kibaki died on Tuesday morning while undergoing treatment in Bupa Cromwell Hospital in London.
News of her death was announced by President Uhuru Kenyatta in a statement to newsrooms on Tuesday.
Mrs Kibaki was flown out of the country last week for specialised treatment in London.
She had last month been admitted at Nairobi Hospital intensive care unit after seeking treatment from Gertrude’s Hospital, which is closer to her home.
To date, it has not been established what was ailing the former First Lady.
Mrs Kibaki had not been seen in public for nearly five years.
She leaves behind four children namely Judy Wanjiku, Jimmy Kibaki, David Kagai and Tony Githinji.
She was born in the 1940s in Mukurwe-ini to colonial era Presbyterian Church of East Africa pastor Rev John Kagai and Rose Nyachomba.
She was a teacher at Kamwenja Teachers College before she was transferred to Kambui College.
She quit her teaching job at Kambui College—now Kiambu Girls— after independence in 1963 to raise her family as her husband concentrated on politics.
In his message of condolence, President Kenyatta said Mrs Kibaki will be remembered for her immense contribution in the development of the country.
“Notable was Her Excellency’s virtues of leadership and commitment to improving wellbeing of Kenyans, in particular her focus on tackling HIV/Aids, which will remain an inspiration to many,” he said.
In September 2003, the former First Lady organised the First International Aids Run and was behind setting up of the Kenyan chapter of African First Ladies Against HIV/Aids (OAFLA) lobby group.
Deputy President William Ruto posted his message of condolence on Twitter saying he learnt of the death with deep sorrow and is praying for Mr Kibaki and family.
Other leaders who posted messages on Twitter include Chief Justice Willy Mutunga, National Assembly Majority Leader Aden Duale and Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale.
