Tribute to Ngugi Wathiongo

Tribute to Ngugi wa Thiong’o:

Today, we pay tribute to the literary giant, Ngugi wa Thiong’o, whose profound works not only showcased his mastery of the English language but also ignited a sense of pride in our African heritage. Through his writings, he skillfully exposed the erosion of our African values under colonial rule and the continued struggles of our people in the post-independence era.

Ngugi’s works served as a powerful tool against colonialism and neocolonialism, inspiring a generation of African writers, including myself. His courage to challenge injustice through his pen is a testament to the impact of literature on society. The likes of Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, and Ngugi wa Thiong’o paved the way for us to tell our stories, and we are forever grateful.

As we bid farewell to this literary legend, we celebrate his legacy and the lessons his works imparted. His writing not only reflected the struggles of our people but also offered a glimpse into the richness of our African culture. Ngugi’s contributions will continue to inspire future generations of writers and thinkers.

In today’s Africa, we face new challenges, such as bad governance, corruption, and neocolonialism. It’s essential that we, as writers, tackle these issues head-on, just as Ngugi did during his time. By exploring these topics in our works, we can spark meaningful conversations and inspire change.

As we reflect on Ngugi’s life and works, we’re reminded of the power of literature to shape our understanding of the world and ourselves. His legacy will live on through the countless writers and readers he inspired.

Rest in peace, Ngugi wa Thiong’o. Your work will forever be etched in our minds, and your impact on African literature will continue to be felt for generations to come.

— Malinga Gerald aka Spongeman, Aspiring President of Uganda 2026-2031