Uhuru Kenyatta’s Family Mourns Brother-in-Law William Gakuo’s Passing

• Nov 09, 2024

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta's family is mourning the loss of his brother-in-law, William Gakuo, who passed away on November 6. Gakuo, a brother to former First Lady Margaret Kenyatta, had four siblings: Gabriela, Maina, Anna, and Christine. Details regarding the cause of his death have not been disclosed, but the news was shared in an obituary notice that expressed sorrow and acceptance of his passing.

Gakuo, who was married to Sheila Wanjiku Mwangi, is survived by an extended family that includes many nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. He was an uncle to Noni, Jomo and Achola, Lena and Bulisa, Ngina and Alex, as well as Muhoho and Chizi. Despite being connected to one of Kenya's most prominent families, Gakuo kept a low profile, seldom appearing in the public eye.

Although he largely stayed out of the spotlight, Gakuo shared a unique bond with Uhuru Kenyatta, as they both attended St. Mary’s School, a well-regarded institution in Kenya. Their friendship began there, and it was through this relationship that Kenyatta eventually met Gakuo's younger sister, Margaret. Kenyatta has previously recounted how he first became friends with Gakuo, which led to his introduction to Margaret, whom he married at the Holy Family Basilica in 1989.

As per the obituary, family and friends will gather at Gakuo's home in Karen, Nairobi, on Saturday, November 9, and Sunday, November 10, to make arrangements for his send-off. The final rites are set for Tuesday, November 12, with Gakuo's cremation scheduled at the Hindu Crematorium in Kariokor, Nairobi.

At the time of this report, Kenyatta had not yet publicly commented on his brother-in-law's passing. The Kenyatta family’s connection to Gakuo underscores the strength of family ties within Kenya’s prominent families, despite his choice to maintain a quiet life away from the limelight.