Cancer robs Kenya of selfless peace crusader

Kenya’s search for ethnic unity on Saturday suffered a major blow following the death of the vice-chairperson of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission, Ms Mary Onyango.

Ms Onyango died at 9am while being taken to the Aga Khan Hospital in Kisumu by her mother after she suddenly fell ill.

Aga Khan Hospital’s chief operating officer, Dr Nadim Mawji, confirmed that she was dead on arrival at the hospital.

First diagnosed

Political leaders, led by Lands minister James Orengo and nominated MP Milly Odhiambo, arrived at the hospital to condole with the family.

Ms Onyango was first diagnosed with breast cancer in January 1999. She co-founded the Kenya Breast Health Programme — a breast cancer advocacy and support organisation — with the late Julia Mulaha.

And in 2009, doctors discovered that she had metastatic disease, a condition in which the cancerous cells spread to other parts of the body.

“She worked till her last moments. She would even go to work even after undergoing chemotherapy,” said Ms Odhiambo.

President Mwai Kibaki sent a message of condolence to the family, friends and relatives of Ms Onyango.

In his message, the President said the country has not only lost a peace crusader but also a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly to reconcile Kenyans to ensure that peace prevails during and after the next General Elections.

“It was due to her dedication and commitment to duty that she held various senior management positions in the public and private sectors,” he said.

Prime Minister Raila Odinga said her death “could not come a worse time for Kenya”.

“Only two weeks ago, she took me through the Commission’s plan to ensure the next elections are held in an atmosphere of peace and trust, a feat she believed would be achieved through the Kenya Kwanza Campaign,” said the PM in a condolence message.

On March 22, Mr Odinga became the first high-ranking government figure to sign the peace charter by the NCIC which seeks endorsement from Kenyans from different backgrounds against violence in the next General Election.

Polarised by politicians

At the signing of the peace charter, Ms Onyango said the country has been polarised by politicians who use tribes to advance their personal goals.

She said the feeling shared by Kenyans was that the country is a “conglomeration of ethnic nations” and that the charter called for service beyond self.

Mr Odinga added that the best way for Kenyans to honour her memory would be by carrying forward the vision that she had for the country.

Ms Ida Odinga, the PM’s wife, said Ms Onyango was a role model to many people, especially women battling cancer.

“It is sad that Mary has left us before her dream of having cancer-testing equipment established in all district health facilities is achieved,” Ms Odinga said.

Minister for Justice Eugene Wamalwa, in a statement issued in Kericho, said, “her death should strengthen our resolve as a nation to achieve her dream.”

In her capacity as the vice-chair of NCIC, Ms Onyango will be best remembered for leading the fight against hate speech on social media sites.

Reported by Stella Cherono, Frankline Sunday and Lillian Onyango