Former nominated MP Catherine Nyamato dies
The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has mourned the death of former nominated MP Catherine Nyamato.
In a statement on Thursday, July 17, 2025, KEWOPA hailed the late Nyamato as a fearless advocate for gender equality and a mentor for women leaders.
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“KEWOPA mourns the passing of former Nominated MP Hon. Catherine Nyamato, a fearless advocate for women’s rights who boldly championed gender equality, fought against FGM, and inspired generations of women leaders in Kenya. Her legacy will live on in the continued struggle for inclusive leadership and justice for all,” the statement reads.
Fearless champion
This comes after Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo mourned the loss of the ex-legislator, who became the first woman in the greater Gusii region to be nominated to Parliament by the late President Daniel Moi.
“I have learnt with deep shock of the passing of Hon. Catherine Nyamato. Mama Catherine was a brave, brilliant, polished, and pragmatic politician whose distinguished performance at the County and national stage reflected resolute dedication to impactful leadership,” Nyaribo said on July 16, 2025.
“Her refined eloquence and determination decorated and elevated women as key pillars in the national discourse of socioeconomic development. Indeed, Catherine did not wait for change to happen; she was the change herself. She empowered the girl-child and women through strategic and programmatic activism, advocacy initiatives, contributing to founding an inclusive and equal society.”
Consequential female leader
He equally indicated that Nyamato could easily be the most consequential woman leader in the greater Gusii region.
A trailblazer, Mama Catherine stood out from the Gusii region, mentoring many in politics and beyond. I dare say, she is one of the most consequential women leaders of our time from the Gusii region,” Nyaribo remarked.
Nominated Senator Esther Okenyuri also mourned the former lawmaker as a fearless leader who fought for the rights of women at a time in a patriarchal system.
“She relentlessly fought for what she believed was right, her approach direct and unfaltering, even with the toxicity of patriarchy at the time. Nyamato never shied in speaking for civil education of women, their involvement in male-dominated spaces, empowerment of women, and equity in the society,” Okenyuri said.
