Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is mourning the death of his elder sister, Eunice Nyangari Gachagua, who passed away in Naro Moru at the age of 77. Gachagua announced the sad news through a statement shared on social media, expressing grief over the loss of his firstborn sister, whom he described as a mother figure and a central pillar of their family. According to Gachagua, Eunice had taken up the role of providing guidance and support to the family following the death of their mother, Martha Kirigo Gachagua, seven years ago.
In his tribute, Gachagua said the family of the late Mzee Nahashon Gachagua Reriani and Martha Kirigo was mourning the loss of their eldest daughter. He also extended his condolences to Eunice’s children, Waithera and Murimi, together with her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other members of the extended Reriani family.
Gachagua Celebrates Sister’s Life and Legacy
Reflecting on her life, Gachagua expressed gratitude for the 77 years she spent with her family, describing her as a warm, cheerful and caring person whose presence brought happiness to those around her. He noted that the family would greatly miss her wisdom, guidance, kindness and the special memories they shared throughout the years. Gachagua also offered prayers for her soul to rest in eternal peace, as the family comes to terms with her passing.
The Gachagua Family’s History and Political Legacy
The Gachagua family traces its roots to Hiriga village in Mathira Constituency, Nyeri County, with a history associated with Kenya’s struggle for independence and subsequent public service. Their late father, Mzee Nahashon Gachagua Reriani, lived to the age of 105 and reportedly supported Mau Mau freedom fighters during the struggle for independence by servicing their weapons in the Mount Kenya forests. His wife, the late Martha Kirigo Gachagua, also played a role in the liberation struggle by transporting food and ammunition to freedom fighters.
Mzee Nahashon had two wives, Martha Kirigo and Lydia Nyaguthii, with the wider family comprising 13 children. Several members of the family went on to occupy prominent positions in Kenya’s political and public life.
Among them was Nderitu Gachagua, who served as the first Governor of Nyeri County after devolution and previously represented Mathira Constituency in Parliament. He died in 2017. Rigathi Gachagua also represented Mathira Constituency as a Member of Parliament between 2017 and 2022 before becoming Kenya’s Deputy President.
Another family member, James Reriani Gachagua, a communications engineer educated in the United States, contested the Mathira parliamentary seat in 2013 before passing away in 2022. The death of Eunice Nyangari Gachagua adds to the family’s recent losses, as relatives and loved ones remember her contribution to the family and the legacy she leaves behind.
