16 Prominent Kenyans Who Passed Away in 2024

In 2024, Kenya mourned the loss of several prominent individuals across various fields, leaving behind legacies that will be remembered for years. Below is a list of notable Kenyans who passed away during the year:

1. Ezekiel Otuoma

Former AFC Leopards striker Ezekiel Otuoma succumbed to motor neurone disease on December 20. Known for his remarkable football talent, Otuoma bravely battled the illness for years, with his devoted wife, Rachel Otuoma, by his side.

2. Tabitha Gatwiri

Content creator Tabitha Gatwiri passed away on October 13, leaving many in shock. Found lifeless at her residence, initial reports suggested suffocation as the cause of death, though findings were inconclusive. She was laid to rest in Meru County on November 15.

3. Bishop Allan Kiuna

Jubilee Christian Church (JCC) founder Bishop Allan Kiuna passed away on July 9 after a long battle with cancer. He was remembered for his spiritual leadership and was buried on July 17.

4. Fred Omondi

Comedian Fred Omondi, brother to Eric Omondi, tragically died in a motorcycle accident on June 15 along Kang’undo Road. He was buried in Siaya on June 30.

5. Jahmby Koikai

Reggae entertainer and health advocate Jahmby Koikai passed away on June 4 due to complications from endometriosis. Her career as a reggae emcee and health advocate left an indelible mark on many lives.

6. General Francis Ogolla

Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla died in a helicopter crash on April 18 near the West Pokot and Elgeyo Marakwet border. Eleven other military personnel also perished in the incident. General Ogolla was buried in Alego, Siaya County.

7. June Moi

June Chebet Moi, adopted daughter of former President Daniel Moi, passed away on April 11 at the age of 60. She was laid to rest in Bahati, Nakuru County, on April 18.

8. Rita Tinina

Journalist Rita Tinina died on March 17 from severe pneumonia. Known for her impactful reporting, she was buried in Narok County on March 27.

9. Brian Chira

TikTok star Brian Chira lost his life in a hit-and-run accident on March 16. He was buried on March 26 in Githunguri, Kiambu County.

10. Chongin Kale

Content creator Chongin Kale died in a road accident in Bomet on March 18. He was among five fatalities in the incident.

11. Kelvin Kiptum

Marathoner Kelvin Kiptum died in a road accident on February 11, alongside his Rwandan coach. He was buried in Chepkorio, Elgeyo Marakwet County, on February 23.

12. Charles Ouda

Renowned actor Charles Ouda passed away at the age of 38. His cremation took place at Kariokor Crematorium on February 15.

13. Lizzie Wanyoike

Educationist Lizzie Wanyoike succumbed to cancer on January 14 at the age of 73. She was laid to rest in Murang’a County on January 23.

14. Charles Kipsang

Athlete Charles Kipsang tragically collapsed and died after completing the Mount Cameroon Race on February 25.

15. Starlet Wahu

Instagram model Starlet Wahu was murdered in South B on January 3. She was strangled, and her body showed evidence of a severe injury. Her alleged killer was apprehended.

16. Dick Munyonyi

Mugiithi artist Dick Munyonyi passed away on January 6 after a prolonged illness. Known for his hit song “Firirinda,” he was buried on January 13.

Tribute to Xavier Jerry Nato

The entertainment industry also mourned Xavier Jerry Nato, a celebrated actor and playwright best known for his role in Tahidi High. Nato passed away after battling illness, leaving a legacy in Kenyan theatre and television. Tributes poured in from colleagues and fans, celebrating his talent, warmth, and contributions to the arts.

These individuals made significant contributions to Kenya’s cultural, social, and professional landscape, and their absence will be deeply felt.