The legal community in Kenya, along with Mount Kenya University, gathered to mourn the passing of Dr. Wilfred Mutubwa, who died last week.
He was remembered as a source of inspiration, a mentor, and a friend to many young lawyers in the country.
Dr. Mutubwa, founder of Dr. Mutubwa Law, was also a respected academic and served as the Dean of the Parklands School of Law at Mount Kenya University.
He passed away on November 26, 2024, during a brief health break while attending court proceedings.
Lawyers attending the requiem mass at Consolata Shrine Catholic Church on December 6 described him as a giant in the legal field.
His students fondly remembered him not only as a teacher but also as a friend who guided them in their early legal careers, encouraging them to pursue diverse interests and become well-rounded individuals.
Dr. Mutubwa is survived by his wife Virginia Wanjiru Mutubwa and their children, Noelle and Nadine Mutubwa.
Prof. Deogratius Jaganyi, Vice-Chancellor of Mount Kenya University, led the academic community in mourning Dr. Mutubwa, praising him as a “focused and responsible young man.”
Prof. Jaganyi recalled how impressed the interview panel was when Dr. Mutubwa joined the university, noting his practical experience in the private sector and his proactive, solution-oriented attitude.
Others who attended the requiem mass included former Chief Justice David Maraga, former Attorney General Githu Muigai, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, and Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo. Chief Justice Martha Koome also sent her condolences.
Dr. Mutubwa’s colleagues at MKU reflected on the significant contributions he made to the university and the legal profession.
Dr. Evans Kirira, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Administration, Planning, and Institutional Advancement, highlighted how Dr. Mutubwa revitalized the Masters of Laws program, ensuring its success and growth.
“The best way to celebrate his life is to continue building on his legacy,” Dr. Kirira said.
Acting Dean Seth Ojinde described Dr. Mutubwa as a passionate scholar who loved to share knowledge, even publishing a book on arbitration in the construction industry just a week before his passing.
Students also paid tribute to Dr. Mutubwa, recalling how he inspired them with his mantra that “Leadership isn’t about power, it’s about service.”
Achieng Elsie Sandra, Executive Treasurer of the MKU Students Clubs Council, praised him for always advocating for students, believing in them even when they doubted themselves.
“His office door was always open, and he pushed us to achieve our potential,” she said.
Dr. Mutubwa was also instrumental in creating clubs and initiatives at MKU, including the Golf Club, the ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) Club, and the Law Journal Review.
His efforts to expand scholarships, improve facilities, and foster a strong school community left a lasting impact.
A joint eulogy by the Mount Kenya University Students Association Parkland’s Law School Council (2024-2025) praised Dr. Mutubwa as a mentor, teacher, and friend.
“He always urged us to strive for excellence, never settling for average,” the eulogy stated.
“His commitment to producing well-rounded lawyers, whom he called ‘3D lawyers,’ will guide us for years to come.”
Dr. Mutubwa’s passion for academia extended beyond the classroom. He encouraged students to publish their work and founded the MKU Law Journal, a platform for intellectual discourse.
The MKU Law Journal Committee expressed their gratitude for his unwavering support and mentorship.
Dr. Wilfred Mutubwa was laid to rest on December 7, 2024, at his home in Lurambi, Shimalabandu Village, Kakamega County.
His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of legal professionals.
