Former Nominated Member of Parliament Catherine Nyamato, a respected veteran leader and trailblazer in Kenyan politics, has passed away.
Her death has left the nation in mourning, especially among those who admired her longstanding dedication to public service and advocacy for women’s rights.
Nyamato made history as the first Gusii woman to serve in Parliament, a significant achievement made possible through her nomination by then-President Daniel arap Moi during the era of the ruling KANU party.
She held her position from 1997 to 2002 and was known for her strong voice on issues affecting women and the community at large.
According to reports, Nyamato collapsed unexpectedly by the roadside near her farm in Kijauri, located in Nyamira County, on Wednesday.
At the time of the incident, she was reportedly interacting with local youth who were involved in a community development project. Witnesses say she was in the middle of a conversation when she suddenly fell.
She was quickly taken to Summit Hospital, a nearby medical facility, but unfortunately, she was pronounced dead upon arrival.
News of her untimely death spread rapidly, sending shockwaves across the country. Kenyans from all walks of life, including national leaders and ordinary citizens, expressed deep sorrow and shared heartfelt tributes in her honor, both on social media and in public forums.
Throughout her life, Nyamato held several influential roles beyond her time in Parliament. She once served as the National Women Leader for the Narc-Kenya political party and was also elected Secretary General of the League of Kenyan Women Voters.
In these roles, she remained committed to promoting women’s participation in politics and championing gender equality.
The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) remembered Nyamato as a brave and vocal advocate for women’s rights.
They praised her for courageously standing up against female genital mutilation (FGM), and for inspiring many young women across the country to take up leadership roles. Her legacy, they said, will continue to influence future generations of women leaders in Kenya.
One of the most emotional tributes came from former IEBC Commissioner Roselyne Akombe, who described Nyamato not just as a mentor, but as family. Akombe shared how the late MP had supported her during her university years and had played a motherly role in her life.
“This loss is incredibly painful. Catherine Nyamato was like a second mother to me. She took me in as her own daughter while I was still in university and gave me guidance and care. Her death is heartbreaking for me and for my entire family,” Akombe wrote in a touching message.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba also paid tribute, describing Nyamato as a compassionate, honest, and selfless leader who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of her people.
He praised her integrity and commitment to service, noting how she always put the community’s needs first.
Despite retiring from active politics, Nyamato remained involved in public affairs. In the most recent general elections, she contested for the Nyamira County Woman Representative seat, though she was not successful. Undeterred, she continued to engage in leadership and personal development.
At the time of her passing, Nyamato was furthering her education and was enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program in Leadership and Management at Strathmore University.
Her pursuit of higher learning even in her later years showed her lifelong passion for growth and public service.
Her sudden death marks the end of an era for the Gusii community and for Kenya as a whole. Catherine Nyamato will be remembered not only as a political pioneer but also as a compassionate mentor, a dedicated advocate, and a woman of great strength and purpose.
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