Phoebe “Mama Phoebe” Muga Asiyo

September 12, 1932 – July 16, 2025

It is with deep love and profound respect that we celebrate the extraordinary life of Mama Phoebe Muga

Asiyo—matriarch, leader, and trailblazer—whose spirit, resilience, and compassion transformed countless

lives in Kenya and far beyond.

Mama Asiyo’s life was rooted in the strength of family. As a devoted wife to the late Richard Asiyo for over

65 years, beloved mother to her children, and cherished sister and daughter, she built her legacy hand-in-hand with her family, who were both her steadfast supporters and inspiration throughout life’s journey.

Even as her work took her onto the world stage, she never wavered in her devotion to those she loved,

finding her deepest joy in motherhood and the unity of kin.

Mama Asiyo was a pioneer and trailblazer—the first Senior Superintendent of Kenya Prisons, the first

African chairperson of Maendeleo Ya Wanawake, the first woman Elder among the Luo, the first Goodwill

Ambassador for UNIFEM, Commissioner in the Constitution of Kenya Review Commission, and a

distinguished representative for Karachuonyo in parliament. She received honorary doctorates from Lehigh and York Universities, and was recognised with an Order of the Grand Warrior by the Government of Kenya. Through turbulent and triumphant seasons alike, she wielded her voice with a rare balance of steel and grace. Her presence illuminated every room: with wit, wisdom, and relentless advocacy for humanity. Her life reflects a legacy of love and practical change. Serving her country was the golden thread woven through her life. Beginning as a community development officer on the eve of Kenya’s independence, she became a pillar of hope and progress to many. She understood, with both humility and conviction, that service to country means service to humanity, and her pursuit of justice and dignity for all was guided by an unwavering sense of leadership. Mama Asiyo’s memory dwells in every child whose tomorrow she defended, every woman whose voice she helped lift, and every family she touched with wisdom and love. As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate a life lived without boundaries—a life rooted in kindness,guided by justice, and dedicated to making the impossible possible.

Farewell, Mama. Your impact will resound for generations.