By Peter Ochieng

It is a double tragedy for the family of former Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Education George Omore Magoha, who died on Tuesday, 24th January 2023.

Magoha reportedly died from cardiac arrest about 100m from the Nairobi Hospital accident and emergency unit where he was being rushed for medical attention after collapsing more than two times.

“Professor Magoha collapsed at home and was rushed to the Nairobi Hospital A&E. Efforts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful,” reads a statement released by the hospital management.

The former University of Nairobi Vice-Chancellor died slightly a month after the death of his younger brother in the United States of America (USA).

According to a death and funeral announcement, Professor Richard Nyabera Magoha died in Texas, USA on 6th December 2022.

Burial arrangements are ongoing. He was expected to be buried this weekend.

President William Ruto, his predecessor Uhuru Kenyatta and Azimio La Umoja One Kenya leader, Raila Odinga led Kenyans in condoling with the family of the late former cabinet secretary.

“Prof. Magoha is a towering giant of our time, a great man who stood tall in the academia where he excelled in learning, teaching and research as well as in administration where he led robust turn around interventions at the University of Nairobi and the Kenya National Examinations Council,” wrote the President, who is away in France.

“It is unfortunate and painful that we’ve lost my friend Prof. George Magoha at a time when his family is mourning his brother,” said Kenyatta. The former Head of State appointed Magoha education CS in 2019, a position he held until he was replaced by Ezekiel Machogu last year, in President William Ruto’s administration.

Odinga said, “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Prof. George Magoha, a transformational leader, illustrious scholar, dedicated public servant and distinguished medical doctor who left an incredible mark in our country’s education system.”

Magoha is a native of Siaya County. He died aged 71. The former University don is survived by wife, Barbra and son, Michael. They are both medical doctors.