End of an Era: Last Mau Mau General Kiambati wa Njora Dies at 106

General Kiambati wa Njora: File.

Kenya has lost its last living link to the Mau Mau uprising following the death of veteran freedom fighter General Kiambati wa Njora.

General Kiambati, who was the final surviving member of the 12 Mau Mau generals who led the armed struggle against British colonial rule, died on the morning of February 3, 2026, at his home in Ngorika, Ol Kalou, Nyandarua County. He was 106.

His son, Maina Kiambati, confirmed the death, saying the veteran passed on peacefully due to old age.

“He spent the weekend with his children and grandchildren at home and even held a memorial service for a grandson who died ten years ago. He passed away quietly,” Maina said.

Following his death, Kiambati’s body was transferred from his Ngorika home to a funeral home in Nakuru town as burial arrangements commenced.

His passing marks the end of a generation that directly took up arms in the fight for Kenya’s independence, making him the last surviving Mau Mau general.

General Kiambati’s death follows the passing of several other prominent freedom fighters in recent years, including Brigadier John Kiboko (born Ihoya Kagwe), who died in August 2023 and was buried in Ngorika, Ol Kalou.

It also comes after the death of Mukami Kimathi, the wife of Mau Mau leader Field Marshal Dedan Kimathi, who was laid to rest in Njabini, Kinangop, in May 2023, as well as Major Ka-Chef, born Agnes Muthoni Kinyua, who died last year and was buried in Shamata, Ndaragwa.

Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga was among the leaders who paid tribute to the fallen hero, describing him as a symbol of sacrifice and courage.

“General Kiambati wa Njora, one of the last surviving Mau Mau generals, has rested at the ripe age of 106. It is worthy of celebrating his life, his heroism and, most importantly, his sacrifice for our freedom,” Kahiga said.

The governor added that Kiambati now joins other legendary freedom fighters who gave their lives for Kenya’s liberation.

“May he find company among the heroes who went before him, including Field Marshal Dedan Kimathi wa Waciuri, Field Marshal Muthoni Kirima and General Ndungu wa Giceru,” he said.

Kahiga also paid tribute to other celebrated Mau Mau figures such as Mukami Kimathi, Stanley Mathenge, Musa Mwariama, General Chui, Baimungi Marete, Kubu Kubu, Matenjagwo and Kassim Gichimu.

“To his family, poleni sana, and thank you for giving the nation such a gallant warrior,” the governor said while extending condolences to the bereaved family.