Kenya is mourning the passing of one of its most iconic and pioneering female leaders, Dr. Phoebe Muga Asiyo, who died in North Carolina, USA, at the age of 93. Her death was confirmed by her son, Caesar Asiyo, who revealed that the veteran politician succumbed to complications following a stroke while visiting family abroad.
Dr. Asiyo’s passing marks the end of a remarkable era in Kenya’s political and social landscape. A distinguished public servant and passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, Dr. Asiyo broke barriers throughout her life, becoming a beacon of inspiration for generations of Kenyan women.
She made history in 1980 when she was elected Member of Parliament for Karachuonyo, a position she held until 1983. Following the return of multi-party democracy, she was re-elected in 1992 under the Ford Kenya party and served until 1997. Her career in public life, however, began long before her parliamentary tenure — notably through her work with the Maendeleo ya Wanawake Organization, which she joined in 1953 and led as chairperson from 1958.
Leaders across the political divide have paid glowing tribute to Dr. Asiyo. Former Prime Minister and ODM party leader Raila Odinga hailed her as a “true trailblazer” and “a woman of many firsts—earned and deserved.” He highlighted her early career as a teacher and her rise through the Kenya Prisons Service, noting how she fearlessly entered a male-dominated political arena and emerged victorious.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga also celebrated Dr. Asiyo’s legacy, calling her “a mentor and a pathfinder for women in politics.” She emphasized the profound impact Dr. Asiyo had on Kenya’s women leaders, saying, “We walk a path that she opened when it was difficult for women to walk that path.”
Dr. Phoebe Asiyo’s legacy as a champion for gender equality, a courageous political leader, and a transformative figure in Kenya’s history will remain indelible. As the country mourns her passing, Kenyans reflect on the life of a woman who dared to lead—and who led with unwavering conviction.
