Joseph Gitau, Chairman and Registered Trustee of the Child Welfare Society of Kenya (CWSK), has paid glowing tribute to late former CS Nathan Munoko, as a trailblazing politician, and a steadfast advocate for vulnerable children.
"While there is no doubt about his selflessness, dedication, focus and distinguished service to the country in various capacities, another softer side of him remains largely untold," Gitau said.
According to Gitau, apart from serving in Government and politics, the former long-serving Cabinet Minister who died on December 19, 2024, aged 102, also devoted his life to advocating for the welfare of vulnerable children.
"From the mid-1950s, Munoko was one of the earliest and most dedicated members of the Child Welfare Society of Kenya (CWSK)," he said.
"As a Life Member and Registered Trustee, his tireless efforts embodied the core values of CWSK—compassion, empathy and an unwavering belief that every child, regardless of their circumstances, deserves the opportunity to thrive."
Gitau highlighted Munoko's legacy which he said was marked by impactful contributions. He said that in 1959, Munoko spearheaded a ground-breaking fundraiser to support the Isiolo branch of CWSK that aimed at addressing the pressing needs of children in the arid northern regions of Kenya.
"His leadership was demonstrated further when he mobilised the Bungoma community to establish a local CWSK branch, where he served as chairman, which exemplified his proactive approach to tackling societal challenges," Gitau recalled.
Despite his demanding and distinguished career in public service—as a Senator, Member of the National Assembly and Assistant Minister in several key ministries, including Cooperatives and Marketing (1964), Housing and Social Services (1965), Local Government (1966) and Agriculture (1974)—Gitau says Munoko’s commitment to children’s welfare remained steadfast.
As the Cabinet Minister for Public Works until 1979 and the National Organising Secretary of the Kenya African National Union (KANU), he used every opportunity to champion the needs of vulnerable children.
Resilience and commitment
"In 1974, Hon. Munoko succeeded Sir Humphrey Slade as the first African National Chairman of CWSK and later served as a member of the Board of Trustees," Gitau said.
According to Gitau, Munoko's tenure was marked by integrity, selflessness and a focus on service rather than recognition. "Even when CWSK proposed celebrating his 100th birthday, he declined elaborate festivities, requesting instead that the resources be directed toward initiatives to improve children’s lives."
At the remarkable age of 98, Hon. Munoko continued to defend CWSK’s mission, standing with fellow trustees in court to uphold the organisation’s stability and integrity.
His resilience and commitment were unwavering, even in his later years, demonstrating his profound dedication to serving others.
Even at 100 years old, Gitau recalls, he remained deeply engaged in issues affecting children.
"For example, upon watching live Senate proceedings discussing matters such as the CWSK Embu land case, he would immediately alert the CWSK CEO and fellow Trustees to ensure that the interests of children were protected. His involvement also extended to oversight matters; he actively participated in inspecting CWSK projects, such as those at Joska, exemplifying hands-on leadership and a relentless drive to make a difference."
A memorial service was held on December 31, 2024, at Winners Chapel International Church, Likoni Road, Nairobi.
He will be laid to rest on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at his home in Endebbes, Kitale, Trans Nzoia County.
"We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time," Gitau said.
