Famous Kenyans Who Passed Away in 2025

The year 2025 will go down as a painful period for Kenya after the country lost several well-known figures from politics, music, media, and entertainment.

From senior political leaders to young creative talents, the deaths shocked many Kenyans and sparked national mourning. These moments reminded the country of unity, as people from all backgrounds came together to comfort grieving families.

Here are eight famous Kenyans whose deaths deeply affected the nation in 2025.

1. Raila Odinga

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga died on October 15, 2025, after reportedly suffering a cardiac arrest while undergoing treatment in India.

His death sent shockwaves across the country, with leaders, supporters, and citizens from all walks of life paying tribute to a man who played a major role in shaping Kenya’s political history.

Raila is remembered as a long-time opposition leader, a strong voice for democracy, and a key figure in the push for Kenya’s 2010 Constitution. He served as Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013.

2. Betty Bayo

Popular gospel singer Betty Bayo passed away on November 10, 2025, after a long battle with leukaemia.

Her death saddened fans across the country, with many remembering her powerful gospel songs and strong faith. Her burial was attended by political leaders, fellow musicians, and fans from different parts of Kenya.

Betty Bayo remains one of the most respected gospel artists in Kenya’s music industry.

3. Cyrus Jirongo

Former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo died on December 13, 2025, following a road accident in Naivasha.

His death raised questions and controversy, especially among family members and close friends. Jirongo was a well-known businessman and politician who rose to prominence in the 1990s.

He served as Lugari MP during two different terms and also worked as a Cabinet minister during the Moi era.

4. MC Fullstop

Veteran MC and media personality John Maina, popularly known as MC Fullstop, died on August 1, 2025, after battling lung tuberculosis.

His passing was a major loss to Kenya’s entertainment scene. MC Fullstop worked in the industry for over 30 years and was well known for his reggae and dancehall hype style.

He also co-hosted the Riddim Up show on K24 TV and inspired many upcoming DJs and MCs.

5. George Oduor

George Oduor, a long-serving aide and bodyguard to Raila Odinga, died on April 2, 2025, after a short illness.

Oduor had served the Odinga family for decades, starting with Jaramogi Oginga Odinga in the 1980s before continuing under Raila Odinga.

Many Kenyans praised him as a loyal, disciplined, and trusted figure.

6. Kimani Mbugua

Former Citizen TV and NTV journalist Kimani Mbugua died on October 15, 2025, at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret.

The young journalist had struggled with mental health challenges for a long time and had previously gone through rehabilitation efforts.

Kimani is remembered for his confidence on screen, storytelling skills, and bright future in Kenyan journalism.

7. Mr KK Mwenyewe

Content creator and comedian Zakaria Kariuki, popularly known as Mr KK Mwenyewe, passed away in July 2025 after a short illness.

He was receiving treatment at Kiambu Level 4/5 Hospital at the time of his death. Mr KK gained popularity on social media for his comedy skits, especially his imitation of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Many comedians and online creators mourned him as a talented entertainer whose life was cut short.

8. Shalkido

Gengetone musician Kevin Mburu Kinyanjui, known as Shalkido, died on October 6, 2025, after a motorcycle accident along Thika Road.

The 28-year-old suffered serious injuries and was later declared dead at Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral, and Research Hospital.

Shalkido was a former member of Sailors Gang, the group behind hit songs like Wamlambez. His death highlighted the struggles many young artists face even after fame.