Prof. Bethwell Ogot, Legendary Kenyan Historian, Dies at 95

The late Prof. Bethwell Allan Ogot. PHOTO | COURTESY

Kenya has lost one of its most distinguished scholars, Professor Bethwell Allan Ogot, who passed away on January 30, 2025, at the age of 95. His family confirmed that he died at Aga Khan Hospital in Kisumu after a brief illness. His passing marks the end of an era for Kenya’s academic and historical fraternity, as he was one of the most influential voices in rewriting and reclaiming African history.

Born on August 3, 1929, in Gem, Siaya County, Prof. Ogot’s passion for history and research took him across the world in pursuit of knowledge. He attended Maseno School before proceeding to Makerere University for his undergraduate studies. He later earned a PhD from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland and furthered his research at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) in London.

Prof. Ogot played a pivotal role in the development of historical studies in Kenya and beyond. He was among the scholars who worked tirelessly to deconstruct colonial narratives and present African history from an indigenous perspective. His work reshaped the way Kenya and Africa’s past was understood, placing African voices at the center of historical discourse. Over the years, he held various key positions in academia. He served as the first Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, where he played a significant role in establishing the Institute of Development Studies and the Institute of African Studies. Later, he served as Chancellor of Moi University until 2013. His tenure at Maseno University saw the establishment of the Institute of Research and Postgraduate Studies, where he also held the UNESCO Chair for Higher Education in Africa.

His body of work remains essential reading for students and researchers of African history. His publications, including History of the Southern Luo: Migration and Settlement, 1500–1900, Building on the Indigenous: Selected Essays 1981–1998, and Kenya: The Making of a Nation, 1895–1995, are regarded as some of the most comprehensive works on Kenyan and East African history. Beyond writing, he served as President of the International Scientific Committee for UNESCO’s General History of Africa, a major project aimed at rewriting African history from an African perspective. In recognition of his contributions, the African Studies Association established the Bethwell A. Ogot Book Prize, awarded annually for the best book on East African studies.

As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from across the country. Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga described him as “a national treasure whose scholarly work has given us a clearer understanding of our history, identity, and place in the world.” Siaya Governor James Orengo paid homage, calling him “one of Kenya’s greatest minds, a true thinker whose influence transcends generations.” Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen acknowledged his contributions, stating, “Prof. Ogot played a defining role in academic research, ensuring that Kenya’s history was told from an African perspective. His impact will be felt for generations.”

Prof. Ogot was married to the late Grace Emily Akinyi Ogot, a celebrated author, journalist, politician, and nurse. She was among Kenya’s first female writers in English and served as an assistant minister in the Kenyan government. She passed away in 2015. Together, they were a literary and intellectual powerhouse, shaping Kenya’s historical and literary landscapes.

Although Prof. Ogot has passed on, his legacy remains deeply embedded in the fabric of Kenya’s academic and cultural history. His books, research, and mentorship have influenced generations of scholars and will continue to shape historical discourse for years to come. The nation mourns a great mind, but also celebrates a life well lived. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.