Mama Edith Malombe, wife to former Kitui Governor Julius Malombe has passed away.
A statement from the family said the former first lady died on Tuesday, following a short illness.
"It is with profound sadness that we the family announce the passing on of Edith Mawia Malombe on December 7, 2021 after a short illness," the statement said.
Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu who sent her message of condolence to the Malombe family remembered Mama Edith as an extremely brilliant and compassionate person, who was the pillar of the Malombe family.
"On behalf of the County Government and all people of Kitui as well as on my own behalf, I wish to convey our heartfelt condolences to Julius Malombe and the family, to the Ithiani community, and to all relatives and friends of the family," she said in a tweet.
She noted that the former first lady inspired great hope and ambition in many young and old women across Kitui county.
"Her charity work through the Kyeni Foundation which she pioneered went a long way to redress gaps in reproductive health services and information here in Kitui County and beyond. Death has robbed Kitui County of one of its most brilliant daughters," Ngilu said.
Other leaders have also sent messages of comfort to the Malombe family.
