Bethwell Ogot, a distinguished historian and scholar whose works helped shape the understanding of East African history, died at the age of 95 on Thursday, January 30, 2025.
His family confirmed that he passed away at a hospital in Kisumu after a short illness.
The news of Ogot’s death has sparked tributes from leaders, academics, and admirers of his vast intellectual contributions.
Siaya Governor James Orengo took to social media to express his sorrow, calling Ogot one of the greatest scholars of our time.
“Prof. Bethwell Ogot is one of the greatest scholars of our time. He has left a legacy of seminal works and historical treatises. A true thinker and intellectual par excellence. He now ‘belongs to the ages.’ Rest in eternal peace,” Orengo wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Kisumu Senator Prof. Tom Ojienda echoed these sentiments, noting Ogot’s enduring impact on historical scholarship and education in Kenya.
“I am deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Prof. Bethwell Ogot, whose exceptional scholarship and intellectual contributions have left a lasting legacy. My heartfelt condolences to his family and all who were privileged to know him. Rest in peace,” Ojienda wrote.
Ogot’s legacy
Ogot was a pioneer in documenting African history from an African perspective, challenging Eurocentric narratives and ensuring that Indigenous voices were centred in historical discourse.
Over the decades, his work spanned topics such as oral traditions, colonial histories, and the role of Kenya in the broader East African context.
Born in 1929, Ogot pursued studies in history, becoming one of the first Kenyan scholars to obtain a Ph.D. in the discipline.
His numerous books and articles have been foundational texts for students and researchers across Africa and beyond.
He also served in various academic and governmental capacities, including as a commissioner for UNESCO and a leader in the African Studies Association.
His death marks the end of an era for Kenyan academia, but his intellectual legacy remains deeply embedded in historical studies.
As the country mourns, tributes continue to pour in from scholars and leaders who recognize his invaluable contributions to the field.
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced by his family.
