This archive report was first published on 10 November 2019.
Dr Kenneth Wameyo, a University of Nairobi-trained veterinary surgeon, was a big-hearted man who left a lasting impact on those who knew him. Born to Dr Elon Willis Wameyo, the first African obstetrician/gynaecologist in Kenya, and Mwalimu Joyce Wameyo, Kenneth was raised in a family that valued public service and professionalism.
Despite his privileged upbringing, Kenneth's parents instilled in him a strong sense of duty and a desire to serve others. He worked in his father's clinic in Mombasa during his high school holidays, accompanied his father on farm visits, and interned at Mumias Sugar Company after his A Levels. These experiences shaped him into a compassionate and dedicated professional who was at ease in high society circles and equally at home with village folks.
As a respected leader in local veterinary circles, Kenneth's influence extended across the East African region. He was a passionate advocate for animal welfare and a permanent fixture at livestock awareness drives and education campaigns. His concern for the lack of government-employed veterinary professionals serving Kenyan farmers at the grassroots was evident in his private conversations with friends and colleagues.
When Dr Kenneth Wameyo passed away, Kenyans on Twitter and Facebook paid tribute to a man they had never met. Lawyer Donald Kipkorir's poignant tribute captured the essence of Kenneth's character:
