This archive report was first published on 2 January 2022.
January 2, 2022, marked a somber day for Kenya as news of the passing of Dr. Richard Leakey, a globally renowned paleoanthropologist and conservationist, spread.
As announced by President Uhuru Kenyatta in a statement to newsrooms, Dr. Leakey's demise was met with an outpouring of condolences from the people of Kenya, his family, friends, and associates.
Dr. Leakey's illustrious career spanned several public service roles, including Director of the National Museums of Kenya and Chairman of the Kenya Wildlife Service Board of Directors.
He was also a prominent figure in Kenya's vibrant civil society, having founded and successfully run several institutions, including the conservation organization Wildlife Direct.
President Kenyatta celebrated Dr. Leakey's contributions, stating, "On behalf of the people of Kenya, my family and on my own behalf, I send heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the family, friends and associates of Dr. Richard Leakey during this difficult period of mourning."
