Hon Phoebe Asiyo./FILEPhoebe Asiyo, pioneer woman MP, diplomat, and gender champion, dies at 93.
The Asiyo family announced that she died peacefully in North Carolina, USA, in a statement released on Thursday, July 17, 2025.
“It is with heavy hearts that the Asiyo family shares the profound loss of our cherished mother,” the statement from Caesar O. Asiyo read.
“Her presence and love will be deeply missed by all who knew her.”
Dr. Asiyo, a revered public servant, was a trailblazer in Kenya’s political and civil rights landscape.
Born September 12, 1932, Asiyo was among the pioneer women from Nyanza to be elected to Parliament, the first being Grace Onyango, the foremost female Member of Parliament in post-independence Kenya, who was elected to represent Kisumu Town Constituency in 1969.
Asiyo served as the MP for the Karachuonyo constituency in the 1970s and 1990s.
A lifelong advocate for gender equality, Asiyo played a critical role in advancing women’s representation and leadership in Kenya.
Outside politics, she worked extensively with organisations such as the United Nations and Maendeleo ya Wanawake, dedicating her life to improving the lives of women and children in Kenya.
Phoebe joined Maendeleo Ya Wanawake Organisation in 1953 and was elected President of the same in 1958.
During her tenure, she advocated for the economic empowerment of African women through establishing small scale businesses and advocating for better farming methods.
She was the first female to be appointed Luo elder and was awarded Chief of the Burning Spear in 2018 for her work in promoting girls education and gender equality in Kenya.
Phoebe dedicated her life to improving the political arena in Kenya, the role of women and girls, and those affected by HIV and fighting against female genital mutilation in Kenya.
Her legacy includes tireless lobbying for legal reforms, social justice, and peacebuilding across the country.
The family said details of the memorial and funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.
A preliminary obituary has been published at Dignity Memorial, where additional information is available.
“We kindly ask for your understanding and patience as we navigate this difficult time,” the statement added.
The public is encouraged to reach out to the family’s official contact, Caesar O. Asiyo, for any inquiries during the mourning period.
Phoebe Asiyo leaves behind a legacy of integrity, courage, and unyielding service to her country.
Tributes are expected to pour in from across Kenya and beyond as the nation mourns one of its most distinguished daughters
