- Asiyo, affectionately known as Mama Phoebe, leaves a profound legacy established through years of courageous service, both domestically and globally.
- On the international stage, Asiyo served as a UNIFEM Goodwill Ambassador from 1988 to 1992, leveraging her platform to promote gender equality and peace.
Kenya is in mourning for Phoebe Muga Asiyo, an esteemed politician and prominent advocate for women's rights, who passed away on July 17, 2025 at the age of 93 in North Carolina, USA, after experiencing a stroke earlier this month.
Asiyo, affectionately known as Mama Phoebe, leaves a profound legacy established through years of courageous service, both domestically and globally.
In 1958, she assumed the role of president of Maendeleo ya Wanawake, one of Kenya's key women's organisations, where she promoted maternal health, economic empowerment, and the education of girls. Her leadership paved the way for countless women to engage in public life.
A pioneer, Asiyo made history as the first African woman to hold the position of Senior Superintendent in the Prisons Service from 1963 to 1964, implementing reforms that prioritised dignity and rehabilitation.
Subsequently, she was elected as a Member of Parliament for Karachuonyo in 1980 and again in 1992, where she passionately advocated for women's rights and democratic principles.
On the international stage, Asiyo served as a United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) Goodwill Ambassador from 1988 to 1992, leveraging her platform to promote gender equality and peace.
Domestically, she played a crucial role in reforming the constitution, championing the landmark two-thirds gender rule, which is essential for enhancing women's representation in leadership.
In 2009, her community honoured her as the first woman Luo elder—an accolade that highlighted her pioneering spirit and cultural significance.
Tributes flooded in from leaders across the political spectrum. President William Ruto referred to her as a "gender equality icon."
At the same time, Raila Odinga has hailed her as a "woman of many firsts" who paved the way for future generations of women. Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga remarked, "Many of us stand on the shoulders of Mama Phoebe."
Her memoir, 'It Is Possible: An African Woman Speaks', captures her steadfast belief in justice, courage, and service.
Phoebe Asiyo will be remembered as a bold advocate who devoted her life to fostering a more equitable Kenya.
Her family will share details regarding her funeral arrangements. As the nation mourns, her lasting message echoes: change is achievable, and every woman's voice is significant.
