BY ANGELA R. KIURA
Villagers from Gatoori in Manyatta Constituency, Embu County gathered in large numbers on Tuesday to bid farewell to Mzee Joseph Gichovi Ngai ya Uvoro, a revered clan elder who passed away at the remarkable age of 125.
Mzee Gichovi, a long-serving member of the Iga Muturi clan and retired officer at the Ministry of Agriculture, was celebrated for his wisdom, leadership, and unwavering commitment to community values.
He died while undergoing treatment at Embu Level Five Hospital due to age-related complications.
More than 100 mourners, including elders, relatives, and youth, attended his burial at his home in Gatoori, where his legacy of peace, unity, and mentorship was honored.
“Mzee was a pillar in our community. He united families, solved disputes, and mentored our youth,” said Albert Ndwiga, 77.
Known for his dedication to agriculture, Mzee Gichovi managed a five-acre farm and ran a small village shop well into his old age. He specialized in coffee, macadamia, and livestock farming.
He was instrumental in founding Urumwe Football Club, a youth initiative aimed at steering young people away from alcoholism and drug abuse.
“Mzee rarely drank alcohol and lived by God-fearing principles. His lifestyle has inspired many of us,” said Antony Muriithi Njoroge, the club’s manager.
Family members remembered him as a loving patriarch who leaves behind six generations: 13 children, 51 grandchildren, 72 great-grandchildren, 24 great-great-grandchildren, and six great-great-great-grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife, Annah Nginda Gicovi, who is over 100 years old, and was predeceased by his first wife, Hellen Mbeere Gicovi.
Despite his passing, clan elders have vowed to uphold his mission of unity and cultural mentorship within the community.
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