The death of Dr. Ken Ouko of the University of Nairobi has jolted many Kenyans
Kenyans have finally changed their tune about the coronavirus from “Covid-19 is a hoax” to “Covid-19 is real after a prominent lecturer succumbed to the virus.
Dr. Ken Ouko of University of Nairobi (UoN) died on Saturday according to the institution’s communication director John Orindi.
The sociologist breathed his last at Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi where he was undergoing coronavirus treatment.
The 56- year-old don’s death brings the number of UoN lecturers who have died of the respiratory disease to five.
On Friday, July 25, the university’s Vice Chancellor Professor Stephen Kiama through a post on social media averred that the Kenya’s oldest university had lost 4 members which included 3 active members of staff and one retired staffer.
He noted that some are receiving treatment in hospitals.
When the news about Dr. Ouko’s death was announced, a section of Kenyans paid tribute to him on Twitter and other social media sites as well as urging their compatriots to be careful and adhere to protocols issued by the Ministry of Health.
“The Demise of UoN Don and a fine sociologist Dr. Ken Ouko sends a chilling reality of #COVID19KE to my country men who still thinks C19 is a game or it’s for some people. This thing is real. DON'T BE IGNORANT!” warned Joseph Oti.
“Think of it guys, if covid 19 can humble people that can afford ICU beds and ventilators in their homes, what of you and me who lives from hand to mouth?” pause Dawn Ochieng’.
David Osiany added, “That Dr. Ken Ouko of UoN has succumbed to COVID-19 this morning is a chilling reminder that COVID kills. It has plucked one of the very finest. Ken was my lecturer & great friend. Exceptionally brilliant with a great sense of humour. Covid has reaped where it did not sow. Go well.”
“Another bad Saturday! Losing one of the best Sociologist in Kenya. Dr Ken Ouko imparted knowledge to thousands of students and he served with zeal, determination and patriotism. COVID-19 is real. Let's continue to adhere to MOH protocols. May he rest in peace,” Ben Momanyi said.
The deceased has been described has brilliant and humorous.
“Dr Ken Ouko was my lecturer for just one unit at the UoN school of Law, yet he’s one of the few I remember as a favourite. He was such an easy happy soul and very committed to his work,” reiterated Karen Nyamu.
“The UoN community is so saddened by the death of Dr Ken Ouko,one of the best lecturers in the UoN. He always made the lecture hall brighter with his knowledge, wisdom and laughter May God be with his family and the University of Nairobi during this tough times,” noted Anne Mvurya Mwangi.
“Dr Ken Ouko! An incredible university don! Made psychology and sociology sound so simple and practical! So sad COVID has cut your life short,” said Norman Magaya.
