Uhuru Leads Kenyans in Mourning Business Mogul Chris Kirubi

President Kenyatta has led the nation in mourning the death of prominent businessman Christopher John Kirubi.

The 80-year-old tycoon died at his Nairobi home on Monday afternoon after a long battle with cancer. 

Kirubi, who was a director at Centum Investment Company - a business conglomerate where he is the largest individual shareholder - has been battling cancer since 2017.

He underwent cancer treatment in the US for five months between November, 2017 and March, 2018.

He was a renowned investor, industrialist, and entrepreneur with interests in manufacturing, media, real estate, insurance, and investment.

Kirubi leaves behind two children; Mary-Ann Musangi and Robert Kirubi.

President Uhuru eulogized Kirubi as a successful mentor and coach who helped raise a generation of entrepreneurs and corporate leaders.

“Chris was one of the most accessible corporate leaders Kenya has ever produced. He interacted with everybody and would show up in places where he was least expected. He interacted with Kenyans, especially the youth, on his radio shows, public appearances, and writings, through which he shared his experiences in business and life,” said Kenyatta.

Retired President Mwai Kibaki described Kirubi as a man of notable charisma, with a clear philosophy from which he derived his sense of purpose and style of engagement.

“Chris was a jolly man. He leaves behind an indelible legacy bedecked with, among other elements, industriousness, determination, and public-spiritedness.”

Deputy President William Ruto said Kirubi was “an irrepressible boardroom operative, media personality, developer and investor whose interests traversed multiple sectors and enterprises.”

ODM leader Raila Odinga said Kirubi “was a dedicated entrepreneur and philanthropist who helped scores of Kenyans over time.”

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka said the deceased " was the embodiment of entrepreneurship building lasting legacies.”

ANC leader Musalia Mudavadi termed Kirubi as “an illustrious businessman who spoke candidly on matters of national importance and the economy. A true patriot who told you as it is; without blinking.”