This archive report was first published on 22 April 2020.
On April 22, 2020, the body of Ken Walibora, a celebrated author and professor, was laid to rest at his home in Trans Nzoia County. The funeral, which was attended by family members, neighbours, and scholars, was a somber affair that highlighted the need for justice in his untimely death.
Walibora's body was airlifted from Nairobi earlier that day and arrived at his Makutano home in Cherangany at around 2:30 pm. The funeral, which was presided over by clergymen from the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, lasted approximately 47 minutes.
Among those present at the funeral were Walibora's extended family members, neighbours, and scholars. His widow, Ann Chebet, and their two children, Sheila Zawadi and Katila Samba, were unable to attend due to travel restrictions imposed to curb the spread of COVID-19.
Police officers and health officials strictly supervised the funeral, ensuring that it adhered to social distancing rules and lasted less than an hour. The ceremony was a poignant reminder of the impact of Walibora's work and the need for justice in his death.
Walibora was celebrated for his exemplary creative writing and journalism skills, and his commitment to promoting the Kiswahili language. His colleagues and friends remembered him as a humble and dedicated individual who valued both the elderly and the young.
Family spokesperson Patrick Lumumba thanked the public and all other parties for their support and called on investigative agencies to get to the bottom of Walibora's death. He urged the government to ensure that justice is served and that those responsible for Walibora's death are brought to book.
As the academic fraternity mourned the loss of a great scholar, colleagues and friends remembered Walibora's contributions to education and his promotion of the Kiswahili language. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of writers and scholars.
