President William Ruto has expressed his condolences on the passing of Field Marshall Muthoni Kirima, recognizing her as a powerful figure of broad influence who played a key role in Kenya’s fight for independence.
The head of state described Kirima as a courageous and hardworking freedom fighter who not only loved her family but also served her community and sacrificed for the country with unwavering dedication on the frontlines of the struggle for freedom.
“We honour her heroic contribution to the freedom and development of our country and pray to God that He grants the family strength at this painful time. Rest In Peace, our shujaa.”
The news of Kirima’s passing was announced on Tuesday by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who also paid tribute to her as a gallant freedom fighter.
Kirima died in Nairobi at the age of 92.
In April this year, she made a significant gesture by shaving her six-foot long dreadlocks in a ceremony that was witnessed by former First Lady Mama Ngina Kenyatta.
The dreadlocks had been a symbol of her commitment to the struggle for Kenya’s independence for an astounding 70 years. The decision to shave them off was a symbolic act that marked Kenya’s attainment of full independence.
Kirima held the unique distinction of being the only woman to hold the rank of Field Marshal during the liberation struggle, while other women provided essential support by cooking for the Mau Mau fighters.
