By Janet Nyamwamu
Catherine Moraa Nyamato, a trailblazing leader and former Member of Parliament, will be laid to rest on August 8 at her home in Nyansiongo, Nyamira County.
Nyamato died at home on July 16.
The body was moved to Nairobi for preservation as burial arrangements commensed.
A major fundraising event in her honour is scheduled for Tuesday, August 5, at All Saints Cathedral from 5:00 PM.
Daily prayers are ongoing at her homes in Kitusuru and Nyansiongo, with the body currently preserved at Lee Funeral Home in Nairobi.
Nyamato is celebrated for her steadfast commitment to women’s leadership and civic empowerment.
Her passing has been felt across Kenya’s political and civil society spaces.
Politician Martha Karua mourned her as “a dear friend and a steadfast leader whose wisdom, courage, and compassion will be deeply missed.”
In Parliament, tributes poured in as Stephen Mogaka, MP for West Mugirango, rose under Standing Order 259D(2)(b) to honour the late leader, fondly known as “Ekerebi.”
Nyamato was born in West Mugirango and spent the bulk of her adult life in Borabu, her matrimonial home.
“She was fearless in championing women’s empowerment,” Mogaka said.
“Even beyond her parliamentary service, she made her mark as Secretary-General of the League of Kenya Women Voters Caucus, where she created forums that elevated women’s political participation nationwide.”
Other legislators echoed his sentiments, remembering Nyamato as a pioneer who opened doors for many women and strengthened civic education initiatives across the country.
Several leaders and dignitaries have visited her family to pay their respects, including Karua, Patrick Osero (MP Borabu).
West Mugirango’s Stephen Mogaka, Jerusha Momanyi (Nyamira Woman Representative), former MP Ben Momanyi, Senior Counsel Jane Matoke, and Kisii County businessman Patrick Lumumba visited the home on Wednesday.
Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetangula reaffirmed Parliament’s resolve to honour and preserve the legacy of leaders like Nyamato.
“As a House, we stand united in condoling with families, friends, and communities of our departed colleagues. Their work will continue to inspire generations.”
Nyamato is remembered not only as a seasoned public servant and legislator but also as a beloved mother, wife, and friend whose legacy will long endure.