This archive report was first published on 4 August 2020.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to ravage the world, Kenya has not been spared. The virus has claimed over 680,000 lives globally, with the country reporting 382 deaths and 22,597 infected cases as of August 4, 2020.
Among those who have succumbed to the virus are prominent Kenyans from various professions, including health workers, showbiz players, and religious leaders. Their loss serves as a stark reminder that COVID-19 does not discriminate based on race, skin color, status, or age.
Funerals of those who have passed away due to COVID-19 are typically attended by less than 100 people, with mourners observing social distancing measures.
Here are some of the prominent Kenyans who have lost their lives to COVID-19:
- Marian Awuor Adumbo
Adumbo, a nurse at the Rachuonyo sub-county Hospital in Homa Bay, succumbed to COVID-19-related complications at a Kisii health facility a week after giving birth.
- Dr. Doreen Adisa Lugaliki
Dr. Lugaliki, an obstetrician and gynecologist at Nairobi South Hospital, was the first medical practitioner to succumb to COVID-19. She left behind twins, a boy and a girl aged 13 years old.
- Dr. Ken Ouko
Dr. Ouko, a renowned sociologist and lecturer at the University of Nairobi, died of COVID-19 complications while receiving treatment at the Aga Khan hospital on August 1, 2020.
- Charles Bukeko
Bukeko, a veteran actor and former Coca-Cola brand ambassador, died from COVID-19 complications. He left behind a widow and three children.
- Antony Waswa
Waswa, the younger brother of Bungoma Senator Moses Wetangula and Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi, passed away in May at the Aga Khan hospital. He was the personal assistant to Wanyonyi and his funeral was attended by 60 people.
- Reverend Peter Kaniah
Reverend Kaniah, the PCEA secretary-general, died on July 26 at the Nairobi hospital while receiving treatment for complications related to COVID-19.
- Professor Maurice Kizito Mangoli
Professor Mangoli, a senior University of Nairobi school of Engineering lecturer from Bumula, died of COVID-19-related complications at the Nairobi Hospital in mid-July.
