Kiambati wa Njora, believed to be the last surviving member of the 12 Mau Mau generals who led the armed struggle against British colonial rule, has died at the age of 106.
Family members said Kiambati passed away on Tuesday at his home in Ngorika, Ol Kalou, in Nyandarua County. His son, Maina Kiambati, said the veteran freedom fighter died of old age.
The family said his body was moved to Umash Funeral Home in Nakuru as burial arrangements begin.
Kiambati was among the Mau Mau commanders whose operations were mainly based in Nyandarua during Kenya’s fight for independence. In recent years, he had spoken openly about the challenges faced by some freedom fighters, urging the government to recognise and support veterans living in poverty.
Family members said he spent time with his children and grandchildren on Saturday during a memorial service for a grandchild who died 10 years ago.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua mourned Kiambati, describing him as one of the many Africans who sacrificed their lives for Kenya’s freedom.
“We shall remember General Kiambati alongside thousands of Africans who died, including great generals and fighters such as Field Marshal Dedan Kimathi, Mukami Kimathi, General China Waruhiu, General Mwariama, General Mathenge and many others who fought with bare hands as bombs and bullets rained on them,” Gachagua said.
He also recalled painful moments such as the Lari Massacre, blaming home guards and collaborators who, he said, betrayed fellow Africans by supporting the colonial government.
Gachagua prayed for God’s mercy upon General Kiambati and other freedom fighters, saying their sacrifice should never be forgotten.
“My deepest sympathies go to the family of General Kiambati and the people of Nyandarua County as the nation comes to terms with his death,” he said.
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