The Kenyatta family is grieving the loss of William Gakuo, the younger brother of former First Lady Margaret Kenyatta and brother-in-law to former President Uhuru Kenyatta, who passed away last Wednesday.
Gakuo, 48, reportedly died by suicide at his Karen residence, and he is set to be cremated at the Hindu Crematorium in Kariokor, Nairobi, on November 12.
Gakuo’s wife, Sheila Wanjiku Mwangi, found him unresponsive, and police investigations are underway. A note was reportedly found at the scene, but the details of the incident remain under investigation.
The late William Gakuo was a member of a well-known family from Kangema, Murang’a County. His father, Dr. Ephantus Njuguna Gakuo, served as the first African Managing Director of Kenya Railways in 1964 after earning his PhD in Economics from Germany’s Freiberg University. Dr. Gakuo’s legacy includes contributing to the circumstances that eventually brought Uhuru and Margaret Kenyatta together.
The family released a heartfelt statement expressing their sorrow, noting that Gakuo leaves behind his wife and siblings, including Margaret Kenyatta. “It is with deep sorrow and humble acceptance of God’s will that we announce the passing of William… Brother of Gabriela, Maina, Christine, and Margaret,” the statement read.
Suicide remains a growing concern globally. According to the World Health Organization, contributing factors include economic challenges, loss, academic pressures, family history of suicide, mental health issues such as depression, and substance abuse. Those facing suicidal thoughts are encouraged to seek support from mental health professionals and counseling services.
