UPDATE: President William Ruto eulogised Mukami as a steadfast patriot and well-known champion for national unity who inspired many Kenyans.
Ruto stated that Mukami bore the scars of war along with other Mau Mau freedom fighters to reclaim Kenya's independence.
"After winning the war for independence, Mama Mukami was left behind to fend and win the struggle to provide for her children in the absence of Field Marshall Kimathi. In her characteristic way, she also won this war," Ruto stated.
Mukami Kimathi, the widow of freedom fighter, Field Marshal Dedan Kimathi, is dead.
Her daughter, Evelyn Kimathi Wangui, on Friday, May 5, confirmed her demise while speaking to Kenyans.co.ke. Wangui stated that her mother passed away on Thursday night, May 4.
The 101-year-old widow was declared dead while receiving treatment at a hospital in Nairobi after developing breathing difficulties.
"Yes, she is dead, and Kenyans are impatient. They have been calling all night to confirm the news. We are awaiting the president to announce since yesterday night.
"We were promised that he would announce. Kindly let him do so to calm the anxiety," an overwhelmed Wangui told Kenyans.co.ke.
Mukami was among the Mau Mau freedom fighters detained at the Kamiti Maximum Prison during the struggle for independence.
She was instrumental in the push that helped Kenya regain its independence from the colonialists.
Mukami was key in successfully planning tribal dances, targeting young men and women. At this time, most men had taken refuge in the forest, or detention camps.
Before her demise, Mukami had received financial aid from President William Ruto's administration, which helped her clear a Ksh1.3 million hospital bill.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua revealed the financial aid after visiting her at a hospital in Nairobi.
"Thank you, President William Ruto, for coming through for Mukami Kimathi and her family. You are a true and genuine friend of our people," the DP wrote.
In her past media interview, she pleaded with the government to help her retrace Dedan Kimathi and give him a befitting sendoff.
