Kenya Bids Farewell to a Lioness: Mama Phoebe Asiyo, Trailblazer for Women’s Power, Passes On

By ARCHEADIOUS KUBAI

Kenya has lost a lioness. A voice that roared for women’s rights long before it was fashionable. Hon. Dr. Phoebe Asiyo — Mama Phoebe to a grateful nation — has taken her final bow, but her legacy echoes louder than ever.

A fearless torchbearer, Mama Phoebe wasn’t just part of the story of women’s empowerment in Kenya — she wrote the first chapters. Long before hashtags and constitutional quotas, she was already demanding a seat at the table — not just for herself, but for generations of Kenyan women.

At the Maendeleo Ya Wanawake Organization (MYWO) — where she served as the first African President and longtime Patron — she left an indelible mark. In a powerful tribute, MYWO National Chairperson Mrs. Rahab Muiu described her as “our guiding light… a bold leader who reshaped what women’s leadership looks like in this country.”

One of Mama Phoebe’s most audacious moves was leading a group of women to the infamous Kapenguria prison to meet Kenya’s founding President, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta. In an era when women were expected to stay silent, she marched forward — daring to challenge the status quo and demand inclusion.

“She didn’t just dream of equality — she chased it down,” said Mrs. Muiu. “She saw a future where women wouldn’t knock on doors — they’d walk in as equals.”

But Mama Phoebe wasn’t just a political powerhouse. She was a builder of bridges, hearts, and hope. Under her leadership, MYWO expanded from a movement to a force — connecting women in villages, cities, churches, and boardrooms with one shared mission: to rise.

To those closest to her, she was a mentor, a mother, and a moral compass. “She reminded us to stay united, to stay loud, and to always fight for the voiceless,” said Muiu. “She was MYWO’s conscience.”

Her death marks the end of an era — but not the end of her impact. Mama Phoebe lit a fire that still burns in every Kenyan woman who dares to lead, speak out, and stand tall.

As Kenya lowers its flag, we raise our voices in honor of Mama Phoebe Asiyo — a fearless pioneer, a generational icon, and a woman who walked where there was no path, so others could run.