Kenya’s first Ambassador to the United States and first Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Burudi Nabwera, has died at the age of 99.

Nabwera, a veteran diplomat and former Cabinet Minister, served the country in various leadership positions, helping shape Kenya’s diplomatic relations during the early years after independence.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi mourned Nabwera as a distinguished statesman whose life was marked by patriotism, public service and commitment to the nation.

Mudavadi said Nabwera belonged to a generation of leaders who helped establish Kenya’s voice on the international stage. He also sent condolences to the family, friends and Kenyans mourning his death.

Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya also paid tribute to the late diplomat, praising his dedication to public service and his contribution to Kenya’s governance and development.

Nabwera also served as Minister of State in the Office of the President and became the first Member of Parliament for Lugari Constituency after its creation in 1988. He represented the constituency from 1988 to 1992.

He later served as Secretary-General of the Kenya African National Union (KANU) during the single-party era under former President Daniel arap Moi.

His death marks the passing of one of the pioneers of Kenya’s diplomatic service, whose career spanned diplomacy, politics and national leadership.